Sociology

Date In Women and Toxic Waste Protests Challenging Power Toxic Waste Protests and the Politicization of White, Working-Class Women by Celene Kraus

Issue of toxic waste made visible oppression not only in the public sphere, but also in the family itself.

The statement that toxic waste activism done by women of various backgrounds exposes a hidden form of oppression that exists within some families. It is the lack of respect for women to have the ability to organize and express a viewpoint in opposition with the prevailing views of men in positions of power. As these women expressed their views to their husbands and family members they often go unheard. Therefore the women reach out to female friends and co-workers with like interests. They band together and start to speak out on the issues. As they do so and begin to ruffle feathers in the establishment at toxic chemical plants, sometimes there is backlash against a family. Oftentimes women find that they differ greatly from others in the household including governmental authorities. It was interesting to note that those of a European background tended to align with their male spouses and the political ideals that government leadership represents before becoming involved in an environmental project (Blum, 2010). Those of an African American and Native American background were less trustful of government, however too experienced the same barriers, though the African and Native American women tended to be more politically aware. As the wife or woman becomes more educated they develop personal ideas and opinions about what is good for the community. When they seek answers from government or leaders in the industry, they are largely ignored. The disillusioned then seek support from her female counterparts.

The husband in these instances may then attempt to stifle the efforts of the women in the household. This causes contention in the home. These women bind together and define their own theories which lead to them become activists. As a woman they are natural organizers and able to easily network and garner support which leads to a united affront to the establishment. It is at this point, sadly that families face internal upheaval as male dominated political and views on democracy are challenged. It appears according to Krauss that often the result is a higher divorce rate among women activists.

2. In the on-line reading White Privilege by Peggy McIntosh, how is privilege defined, and why does she call it invisible

Privilege is defined as invisible because they are taken for granted as a right based on a belief of moral equivalency. They truly believe their systems of thought are the best and most equitable for all (McIntosh, 1990). When in reality they are designed to benefit themselves first and others secondary. All others are expected to conform to their model or be considered inferior. These privileges are instilled among Whites from birth and therefore any other view is not presented until much later in life. Usually beginning in the teen years when youth are asking more questions and challenging views presented by others.