Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to correct information on the status of the Pride Center and Queer Student Union.
Gender Studies program coordinator Marla Zubel invited students Thursday to engage in conversations about gender, identity and culture.
Zubel said she organized the Feminist Chat to create an informal space for students to discuss gender, feminism and social issues. She also said she wanted to foster a sense of community among students interested in gender studies and help individuals explore feminist perspectives.
“Feminism is about helping everyone get free to be the most authentic person they can be, whatever your gender is; man, woman, nonbinary,” Zubel said.
During the meeting, attendees discussed pop culture, Taylor Swift, Harry Potter and the impact of social media on creating a toxic environment between celebrities and fans.
Attendees also expressed their frustrations with WKU’s decision regarding the Pride Center, viewing the action as a setback.
“It’s the sense of take-backs that have been fought for,” Zubel said
Jessica Levine, a first-year graduate student in the Master of Fine Arts program, said that the student-run Queer Student Union will still be able to use the space formerly known as the ISEC Pride Center. The Pride Center, which is separate from the Queer Student Union, is what was flagged as not compliant under House Bill 4. Levine said she was relieved when the president of the Queer Student Union clarified that for her.
The group talked about the difference between modesty and humility, with Nikky Finnely’s perspective that “modesty is a lie,” suggesting that pretending to be humble or downplaying your talents is not being true or honest. Attendees also discussed gender dynamics in confidence, the challenges of accepting compliments and the social pressures that lead people–especially women–to downplay their achievements.
“We all just need one day where we have the confidence of a regular white man,” said Elizabeth Mase, a sophomore graphic design major. “The type that goes up to just anyone and just says, ‘Hi, nice outfit, how is your day?’ and then just walks on.”
As the group wrapped up the discussion, they used Nikky Finney’s words, “modesty is a lie,” to remind attendees that accepting compliments is okay and not something to be ashamed of.
“I think I’ll definitely think about how I respond when receiving a compliment, and try to accept the compliment more than try to brush it off,” said Kayla Kean, a senior double majoring in philosophy and psychology.
