What we’re about
This is a group for people interested in feminism and gender equality. I would like the group to be as inclusive as possible, open to people who have been espousing feminist principles their whole lives, and those who still aren't quite sure what feminism means, but want to learn more. Let's build some community around feminism in the South Bay!
General Guidelines (borrowed and adapted from San Francisco Feminist Book Club)
- We will meet monthly to discuss a selected book, and may have additional meetups when people are interested. Readings will be selected by the group through suggestions and polls, and may cover a wide range of topics.
- This group is open to people of all genders and with all levels of experience with feminism.
- You are encouraged to express disagreement and debate the topics. Be respectful of others and recognize that they may not have as much experience with the academic side of feminism as you do. Try to check desires to interrupt others or dominate the conversation.
- It is best if you complete the entire reading in time for the discussion. If you only get through part of the reading, please do still come and discuss the part you read! However, if you don't get a chance to start the reading, it is best not to attend the discussion.
Guidelines for Men (borrowed from San Francisco and Seattle Feminist Book Clubs)
Feminist Book Club is a space where men can learn and be challenged, but women are the center and the priority of this group. Men who aren’t into that are welcome to join any of the zillions of meetup groups where their privilege will go unquestioned. Here are our guidelines/expectations for men:
1. This is an explicitly feminist group. We are not here to debate the validity of feminism or the existence of patriarchy.
2. If you feel a burning itch to ask “what about the men??” in our discussions please DO NOT scratch that itch. Patriarchy is allll about the men, so you should be able to handle a two-hour conversation in which you are not the centerpoint.
3. Do not come to book club to stretch your “intellectual debate” muscles. Patriarchy isn’t an abstract concept or philosophical quandary, it’s our daily experience.
4. Come to listen. Men are not the experts on women’s experiences. You might learn something interesting if you listen more than you speak.
5. Do not interrupt women.
6. Do not come here to meet women (romantically).
7. Do not accuse us of hating men or being too critical of men.
If you don't like these rules, don't come. We won't tolerate any bullshit.
