Service Learning Log  1

1.      Activism – This week Gerri, Elizabeth and I met to finalize our action plan and confirm our dates. We also gathered together articles and pictures to assemble a board to provide information while we are tabling. We set a definite date of April 2 for tabling on campus from 9-3 and will do the remainder of our hours individually in our areas by posting flyers in local vet offices and other public areas.

2.      Reflection – This week we read about the “Slut Walk” and “Guadalupe the Sex Goddess”. Both of these talk about women’s sexuality. The Sex Goddess talks about finding sexuality while the “Slut Walk” talks about violence against women and that is what ties the week’s readings to my Service Learning Project. Animal Safehouse help victims of abuse find a way to get out of violent circumstances not only themselves but the family pets. Pets are part of the family and are also abused along with the other members of the family. Women are reluctant to leave if they have nowhere to take the pets. Our petition will not only help to change the definition of domestic abuse but it will bring awareness to the problem and to domestic abuse in general. It is very important to continue the conversation about abuse and keep it in the forefront.

3.      Reciprocity – Women are expected to be the caregiver and to keep the family together. This thinking keeps women in situations that are unsafe for them, their children and the family pets. When I think of my pets and their place in our family I cannot imagine leaving them behind in any situation especially if they would be left in danger. What a rewarding feeling to be able to help make the transition from the abusive situation to safety a little easier for all involved. A feminist will generally look at the entire picture and want to help everyone, not just the main victim.

Works Cited

Cisneros, Sandra. "Guadalupe the Sex Goddess." Women's Lives: Multicultural Perspectives. By Gwyn Kirk and Margo Okazawa-Rey. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2010. 164-67. Print.

"WHY." SlutWalk Toronto. Slut Walk Toronto. Web. 25 Mar. 2012. <http://www.slutwalktoronto.com/about/why>.