Some quick closing thoughts

I am not a blogger. There were times when I enjoyed writing it more than others. Whether I liked it or not, I do see the value in blogging daily in such a course as Gender and Conflict. When we read about different theories and models, and we need to write about them, it always comes out better when we make it personal. We can use personal experiences, opinions, references in politics or the media...It really has been great. I know that even though this class is over, I will not stop thinking about things through gendered-colored glasses. I also very much enjoyed the semester-long projects. The lit-review, not so much, but presenting and also seeing other students present is just another perspective that is valuable when learning. Even when we were working in our small group, we had differing opinions and experiences and we got into arguements. But that is the point. Healthy debates helps everyone grow and understand others. I have learned so much about different cultures, religions, oppression, feminist theory, media, psychology, and so much more all through gender. I know this is not the best thing to admit, but I admit that I don't absorb everything in a class (ok but if you say you do, you're lying so at least I am honest). This is one class where I feel I have taken so much away from, I will be quoting Tong and Frye for years to come! Before this course, I did consider myself a feminist. Not the crazy, radical that starve themselves or try to castrate the male population. But I do believe in equality, which I do not think we are completely there yet. After this class though, I realize that there is so much more dimension to feminism. It was great to see some boys in the class. Feminism needs informed allies. Who knows? Maybe we will see one of those guys in congress in a few years passing bills for actual equal pay. Until then, I hope that this class impacted them as much as it has impacted me.