Activism Log 4

March 15-20

• This week was the start of Feminist Agenda Radio. I would consider it a success, especially after communicating with several people that listened to the show. The entire process was nerve wracking though because I was unfamiliar with protocol and the equipment. The idea for the show that I brought to the table (discussing the issues of the word "feminism" and all the connotations that are wrapped up in it) did not become the one we discussed, but the topic we decided on (current popular songs and their implications and messages) was delightful. It was nice to have a serial caller, who happened to be trans, while we were discussing the rumors presently surrounding Lady GaGa.

• One issue that I have been debating inside myself this past week because of the release of Lady GaGa's "Telephone" video is the issue of empowerment versus exploitation. Does the video cause an exploitation of the female form, or does it empower it because of its liberation? This debate came to the forefront of my mind while seeing a comedy act at the Orlando Brewery on the 19th. My Black-American friend, Big Harry, is a stand-up comedian whose purpose on the stage is to offend as many people as possible in the audience. His act is incredibly racists, sexist, and classist. Although it appears he is commenting on the Black Male Experience, he truly just lists off a series of increasingly offensive stereotypes in order to get people to leave. From his perspective, his act is empowering because it shows the ludicrous nature of racism, since he is a part of the group he is commenting on. However, I wonder how empowering it could be since he was nearly in an altercation with a Black-American in the audience.
• One of my favorite parts of working with the Feminist Agenda Radio was the fact we received several phone calls from Queer House. We were able to hear a trans perspective on several topics, fulfilling our duty, according to Seely, to critique the impact of pop culture on "the public perception of women" (103).

Seely, Megan. Fight like a Girl: How to Be a Fearless Feminist. New York: New York UP, 2007. Print.