Blog 4: Gender in the Indigenous Community

Before the French and English arrived to colonize the world, there were indigenous communities living there. Previously, these white people disapproved of Aboriginal cultures because, in their eyes, they were inferior to Christianity and did not belong on the same plane. Gender roles differ significantly; for example, women are frequently granted equal authority in indigenous cultures, which is not the case in European settings. This raises the question: Why did Europeans view indigenous cultures through a gendered lens? It is because of what their own culture believes. The contrasting views on gender between Indigenous Peoples and European colonists were influenced by cultural differences and historical contexts, impacting various aspects of society, including labor practices, marriage customs, and conceptions of gender identity. Works such as Tony Zosherafatain’s film “Trans in Trumpland,” Willeen G. Keough and Lara Campbell’s book “Gender and Cultural Diversity in the Early Contact Period,” and Glenn Gear’s speeches reveal the differing worldviews of Indigenous Peoples and European colonists.

Firstly, in contrast to European societies, the division of labor based on gender roles in Aboriginal communities appears to be more equitable. Despite existing social and political hierarchies that emphasize differences, including gender, Aboriginal cultures recognize the essential contributions of both men and women to the community’s survival. Keough and Campbell claim that despite sex-based labor division, Aboriginal communities valued “men’s and women’s roles as equally essential and complementary, despite work being segregated by sex” long before colonization (17). Also, among the Iroquoian people, a matrilineal and matrilocal system prevailed where “men brought meat home from hunting” while women were crucial in the distribution of communal resources (18). Conversely, in European societies such as New France, social hierarchy was primarily structured around status and rank, often relegating women to subordinate positions irrespective of their social standing. Keough and Campbell emphasize how patriarchal norms rooted in Christian beliefs were so common that even elite women were viewed as inferior to men of similar rank (Keough and Campbell 21). This discrepancy draws attention to the sharp differences in the status and labor division between European and Aboriginal societies. In summary, compared to the hierarchical and gender-biased structures common in European societies, the Aboriginal community exhibits a more equitable distribution of labor across genders.

Secondly, the notion of transgender identity, referred to as “two-spirit,” is highly esteemed and sacred in Indigenous cultures; this acceptance is largely lacking in French or English societies. Indigenous perspectives recognize two-spirit individuals as embodying a unique blend of masculinity and femininity, as depicted in Zosherafatain’s film through an Indigenous man showcasing pictures given by his uncle. Shane Ortega, the indigenous man that Tony interviewed, says that these individuals are viewed as sacred and respected members of society (“Trans in Trumpland: Idaho” 00:03:21-35). People who identify as two-spirit are able to express themselves freely and authentically because of this flexibility, which frees them from the strict gender norms that are so prevalent in Western cultures. However, these attitudes were firmly anchored in homophobia, as evidenced by the derogatory term “berdaches” that was used to describe non-binary people in historical Europe. Keough and Campbell suggest that the misinterpretation of two-spirit identity by European observers frequently reflected wider societal prejudices by viewing it as a sign of effeminacy and passive homosexuality (Keough and Campbell 20). Even though LGBTQ+ people are becoming more accepted in Western societies, there are still obstacles to overcome, as demonstrated by individual tales like Tony’s, whose mother first found it difficult to accept his identity as a transgender person. On the other hand, Donald Trump is against transgender people in the army because of the tremendous medical cost and disruption it would entail, and Shane, who worked for the army for several years, was upset about it (“Trans in Trumpland: Idaho” 00:07:15 -20). Overall, the difference highlights how differently Indigenous communities, whose cultures respect the two-spirit tradition, are accepted than Western cultures, whose views on gender diversity are still developing.

Thirdly, when comparing Western marriage norms to those of Aboriginal communities, notable differences in cultural practices become apparent. Unlike the structured rules and regulations often found in Western marriages, Aboriginal societies exhibit a more flexible approach to marital relationships. Within Aboriginal cultures, the practice of men having multiple wives is not solely driven by personal desire but is intricately linked to socioeconomic dynamics within the community. Keough and Campbell’s research indicates that the taking of multiple wives by men serves to establish status and ensure equitable distribution of labor and resources among households, with first wives typically holding greater authority within these arrangements (18). This underscores the prioritization of familial support and communal well-being over individualistic motives in Aboriginal marriage customs. However, in the videomaking of Glenn Gear, the father wants her daughter to marry a soldier while she is attracted to women; in other words, he is against marrying a woman. In contrast, historical Western societies, such as the French colonial period, imposed rules and rewards aimed at encouraging population growth. Keough and Campbell state that colonial authorities incentivized marriage through “fines for unmarried adults and financial rewards for married couples” (20). This difference illustrates how Aboriginal and Western cultures have different societal priorities and values when it comes to marriage and family. Western societies have traditionally imposed rules and incentives to promote societal growth and stability, while Aboriginal communities emphasize flexibility and communal support in marital unions. This comparison, in general, highlights the complexity of marriage norms in various cultural contexts and encourages more research into the social effects of various marital practices.

In conclusion, there are major differences between Indigenous and European pre-colonial cultures regarding gender roles, acceptance of transgender individuals, and marriage customs. Indigenous societies demonstrated more equitable gender distributions, celebrated transgender identities through the concept of “two-spirit,” and practiced flexible marriage customs grounded in communal support. On the other hand, historical homophobia, strict marriage laws intended to maintain social order, and patriarchal structures were features of European civilizations. In order to promote inclusivity and diversity, it is essential to acknowledge these cultural differences. Knowing Indigenous perspectives forces us to reevaluate our social mores and opens up a more accepting future that values a variety of customs and points of view. The guidelines emphasize the thesis statement and provide a call to action that prompts consideration of the significance of accepting and gaining knowledge from various cultural perspectives on gender.

Works CIted

Glenn Gear, presenter. 29 Apr. 2024, Montreal, Vanier College. 

Keough, Willeen G. and Lara Campbell “Gender and Cultural Diversity in the Early Contact Period.” Gender History: Canadian Perspectives, Oxford University Press, 2014, pp. 16–28 

Zosherafatain, Tony. “Trans in Trumpland: Idaho.” Kanopy, The Film Sales Company, http://www.kanopy.com/en/vaniercollege/video/11561418. Accessed April 29, 2024. 

Blog 3: Exploring Black Experiences

Although it’s commonly said that Canadians are usually respectful, racism does exist in people. Racism in Canada and the US is the same. Through literature and film, Desmond Cole’s essay The Skin We’re In and Jordan Peele’s film Get Out provide deep insights into the lived experiences of black men within these societies. Black men’s interactions with Canadian and American societies are depicted by Cole and Peele, who also expose the racism and discrimination inherent in each country’s histories. We can uncover the historical foundations of racism in the US and Canada by closely examining their works, and we can also learn important lessons that will help us better comprehend the struggles that black communities face today.

The article by Desmond Cole offers a deep look at the challenges Black men face on a daily basis in Canada, revealing the complexities of racist systems that are strongly embedded in social structures. Cole clearly describes situations of racial profiling and police brutality, drawing from his own experiences and those of fellow black individuals: “Over the course of the next few years I would be stopped or followed dozens of times by police in Kingston and Toronto, where I relocated shortly after dropping out of university” (Cole 16). His narrative exposes the harsh realities of living under constant surveillance and suspicion, as black bodies are policed and surveilled in public spaces: “The police are just doing their job: a central responsibility of policing has always been to discipline black people on behalf of the ruling class” (Cole 4). Moreover, Cole’s analysis delves into the larger political and social context, highlighting the historical legacies of colonialism and slavery that continue to shape modern race relations. Cole gives readers a better understanding of the fundamental injustices that support racial injustice in Canada by putting individual experiences within a larger historical context.

Similar to this, Jordan Peele’s “Get Out” delves into the black experience in America, using the horror genre to highlight how subtle racism can be. Themes of cultural appropriation, fetishization, and exploitation are deftly woven together in Peele’s story. Peele reveals the layers of racial manipulation and fraud that hide behind seemingly innocent interactions through the character of Chris, a black man visiting the family of his white girlfriend. The white guests at the tea party, for instance, were drawn to Chris, the main character, because of his skill and strong build in the film (Peele “ Tea Party Scene”). They view him as an object that they can use to fulfill their special needs, like having the ability to see or fight. Ironically, despite the fact that white people tend to ignore them, black people are wanted by them because of their abilities. Black people’s constant fears in mostly white environments are captured in this film, which deftly navigates the complexities of racial identity and belonging. Chris’s black friend, Rod, repeatedly forewarned him when he was among white people. For example, when he revealed to his friend that his girlfriend’s mother practiced hypnosis, the friend urged him to leave the house (Peele “Scene with Chris on call with Rod after waking up from a dream with the mom”). In general, Peele’s use of symbolism and visual storytelling enhances the story to consider how much they may have contributed to the upholding of racial hierarchies and stereotypes.

Furthermore, the historical and social backgrounds that support modern racial dynamics are carefully explored by Cole and Peele. Cole explores the foundations of systemic racism ingrained in Canada’s colonial past and its continuing legacy, going beyond isolated anecdotes. Cole provides perspective on the systemic injustices that sustain racial inequality by placing individual experiences within larger historical narratives. The film “Get Out” by Jordan Peele deftly examines the history of racial exploitation and oppression in America, fusing contemporary concerns with the past. In order to force viewers to face the difficult realities of America’s racial past, Peele uses symbolism and allegory to reveal the enduring power dynamics that define black-white relations. Cole and Peele emphasize the critical need for revolutionary social change by forcing audiences to confront the enduring ways that the past continues to shape contemporary reality through the historical consciousness that informs their works.

In conclusion, Jordan Peele and Desmond Cole’s writings provide insightful analyses of Black life in both Canada and the US. Both Jordan Peele’s film Get Out and Desmond Cole’s essay “The Skin We are In” offer deep insights into the real-life experiences of black men in these societies. Both Cole and Peele show how black men interact with Canadian and American societies, but they also expose the racism and discrimination that are deeply embedded in both countries’ historical narratives. We can better comprehend the historical legacies of racism and oppression in the US and Canada by actively engaging with their stories. It is essential that we keep raising the voices of those who are excluded and seek to eliminate the systemic injustices that still exist in our communities. Cole and Peele’s works serve as potent reminders of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality.

Bibliography:

Cole, Desmond. “‘negro frolicks (January).’” The Skin We’re In, Doubleday Canada, 2020, pp. 1–17 

Peele, Jordan, et al. Get Out. Universal Pictures, 2017.

Money don’t bring happiness

Gatsby throws these huge, fancy parties to hide his inner sadness and his burning desire to win back the love of Daisy Buchanan. He keeps chasing after money and success because he wants to go back to a time when things were better, even though that time seems to slip further away each day. This shows how society’s expectations push him to keep striving for more, even if it means sacrificing his happiness.

In the mysterious world of Jay Gatsby, a man known for his expensive lifestyle and grand parties, there is a story filled with pressure from society and the strong desire to chase a dream. Gatsby, who remains a mystery to many, represents what society expects from people.In the glamorous world of the 1920s, Gatsby becomes a big symbol, showing how the American Dream can get twisted by the relentless pursuit of money and possessions. He does what society expects, trying to fit into the image of what a successful man should be. But deep down, he’s not as strong as he seems. He struggles with his emotions for Daisy, showing that being tough and successful on the outside doesn’t mean you don’t have doubts and fears on the inside.

Gatsby’s whole quest to win Daisy back challenges what people think a man should be like. He shows that being emotionally dependent on someone and going against the norm can be just as important as being rich and powerful. His story makes us question the roles society sets for men and encourages us to see strength in being true to ourselves, even if it means going against the grain.

In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s amazing book, “The Great Gatsby,” Jay Gatsby is a complex character who challenges traditional ideas of masculinity. His journey reminds us that real strength comes from embracing our vulnerabilities and standing up to society’s expectations. Through Gatsby’s story, we’re encouraged to rethink what it means to be a man in a world where pressure and expectations are everywhere.

Blog 2: Unmasking masculinity

Men in Western society are frequently under pressure to demonstrate their masculinity by their strength and power, which might lead them to use unnecessary violence. As demonstrated by documentaries like “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” and “Inside Incel,” this tendency for extreme behaviour is a result of a combination of factors including traditional masculinity and the media’s tendency to romanticise violence. Examining these videos and perspectives, such as Michael Kimmel’s “Masculinity as Homophobia,” helps us understand why men are more likely to engage in extreme forms of homophobia, sexism, and racism.

In “Charlottesville: Race and Terror,” some of Trump’s fans, who are often portrayed as representing traditional masculinity, were opposing the removal of a statue related to slavery. They were mostly white and felt they needed to use violence to defend their perceived white privilege or cultural heritage. Ignoring opposing views, they resorted to physical confrontation, which reflects Michael Kimmel’s idea in “Masculinity as Homophobia” that violence is seen as a sign of manhood. James Will Similarly, in “Inside Incel,” the documentary dives into the online world of ‘incels’, mainly men resentful towards women for not reciprocating romantic interest. Feeling entitled to female attention, they express misogyny and resort to violence. Influenced by toxic masculinity norms online, they believe extreme actions can help them regain their masculinity and control over women. These documentaries give us a glimpse into how traditional masculinity can lead to extreme behaviours. Throughout history, traditional masculinity has been linked to traits like dominance and aggression. Men often feel the need to conform to these norms to prove their masculinity. However, this can lead to harmful consequences, like violence and the perpetuation of discriminatory beliefs. Moreover, societal expectations play a big role in shaping masculine identities. In both documentaries, we see how societal norms influence the behaviours of the individuals portrayed. The pressure to conform to these norms, coupled with feelings of resentment and entitlement, can push people towards extreme behaviours as a way of asserting their masculinity.

The normalization of violence in the media poses a grave threat to societal values and behaviours. By romanticising violence, media platforms inadvertently attract individuals who find excitement in such content, potentially encouraging extreme behaviour. This is demonstrated in the documentary “Inside Incel,” where Toby, who feels rejected by women, uses a music video to display his violent and sexist views. Other people respond positively to the video. Being manly—but more toxically manly in front of the audience—was drawing attention to him. Furthermore, frequent exposure to violent imagery changed individuals to its consequences, blurring the line between right and wrong. Michael Kimmel’s observations highlight violence as a marker of masculinity, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and attitudes, particularly regarding gender dynamics. Research indicates that such exposure increases aggression, particularly among impressionable youth. Real-life incidents, like Alek Minissian’s revenge-seeking actions, underscore the tangible consequences of media-induced violence. He may have done this since he was teased for acting strangely in order to gain attention during his high school years. Kimmel includes a remark from an educator from 1871 that reads, “Boys among boys are ashamed to be unmanly” (cited in Rotunda, 1993, p. 264). An early age can mark the beginning of the fear of being unmanly. Instructor James Will believes that teachers have the power to inform students and contribute to a safer classroom and community for all. He supports positive and healthy manifestations of masculinity. Overall, people become less aware of the impacts of violence because it is normalized by the media, which promotes negative ideas and behaviours. 

In conclusion, films like “Inside Incel” and “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” show how extreme tendencies like homophobia, misogyny, and racism are stimulated by media of violence and societal ideals of traditional masculinity. The cultural pressure on men to demonstrate their masculinity through aggression is reflected in these images. Male domination continues to be reinforced by larger societal differences. In order to overcome this, it is essential to encourage a more inclusive and positive environment through thorough examination of media content and support for nonviolent approaches.

References:

Kimmel, Michael. Masculinity as Homophobia. 1994.

Charlottesville: Race and Terror. YouTube, Vice News, 14 Aug. 2017,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P54sP0Nlngg&t=5s. Accessed 28 Mar. 2022.

Inside Incel, CBC, The Fifth Estate, 27 Jan. 2019, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqWjCHPg9gA.
Accessed 25 Sept. 2023.

James, Will, Online Influencers, Toxic Masculinity, and the Classroom, Vanier College, March 5, 2024

Blog 1: Beyond expectations of being a Man

Some people say that men have an ‘easier’ life than women, with numerous advantages such as securing high-paying jobs. Some women even express a desire to become men, as they are relieved of the responsibility of carrying a baby. The text by Carlos Andres Gomez and the short film “Invincible” explores masculinity from both internal and external perspectives. Through his literary works, Gomez describes the inner battles men have as they attempt to live up to social standards. In contrast, the short film portrays the external expressions of masculinity captures societal pressures and stereotypes through its characters. The goal is to illustrate how the young men react to situations and learn from their experiences.

In the beginning, both works portray the reactions of their protagonists when confronted with situations that alter their lives negatively. For instance, in Carlos’s story, he painted his nails because he found the colours beautiful on his sister and aunt. His aunt, in a gentle manner, tried to convince him that he couldn’t do it because, at the age of 6, he wouldn’t understand. Eventually, the aunt allowed him to experience it for himself, leading to bullying by older boys and his first lesson in masculinity. The text describes the intense emotion following an escape from confusion: ” […] hiding my hands in my shirt, hot tears drenching my cheeks in confusion and horror” (Gomez, 66). Such negative memories leave lasting scars on the mind, making them unforgettable. I believe that learning through experience is often more effective than theoretical learning. The aunt has allowed him to paint his nails to help him realize it himself. Even though she doesn’t appear concerned about him being bullied, their relationship remains the same because he treats her kindly despite the challenges. Similarly, in the short film, Marc displays a tough and cold exterior in front of adults at the juvenile detention center to showcase maturity. However, internally, he is kind-hearted, as seen when he helps a new boy who is being bullied. His compassion stems from pity and concern, reminiscent of his care for his little sister, Justine. Marc, desperate for freedom, feels trapped in his actions, compelled to conform to societal expectations of masculinity. Overall, the analysis highlights the common theme of characters facing negative situations that shape their understanding of societal expectations and masculinity in both works. It highlights how these encounters have a lasting psychological effect on the characters.

Furthermore, the stories explore topics of masculinity and expectations placed on males by society. Through the characters’ experiences, the authors show how there’s a lot of pressure to fit into the traditional idea of what it means to be a man, and this pressure can cause problems. The way older guys attempt to dominate younger ones is a reflection of an incorrect perception of authority and respect, creating a vicious cycle of cruelty and insecurity. The stories also make us think about how strict the rules are for being a man. Society says men should hide their feelings, not show any weaknesses, and always act super confident. These rules can lead to bad behaviours, like the older boys trying to be tough by scaring and putting down the younger boys. Gomez makes a smart point that the power of a word comes from how people react to it. This shows how the bully’s actions are more about trying to control others than being genuinely strong. These stories make us reconsider the harm that comes from strict expectations about being a man, pushing us to think about what being a man means and how it affects individuals and society. But in the short film, Marc just wanted to break free from society’s rules for men. Unfortunately, in the end, he takes his own life by driving into the lake to escape from the harsh reality. When he was underwater, everything became quiet, as if he was isolated from the chaos. Water appeared in scenes like the pool and sprinkler moments, making it a recurring theme in the story. It could symbolize soul cleansing, renewal, emotional depth, and the flowing nature of life. Additionally, the colour of the scenes changes in the film to match the mood. For instance, there’s an orange filter during scenes with Marc’s family, symbolizing warmth. To sum it up, these narratives and cinematic elements collectively invite a critical reevaluation of societal expectations surrounding masculinity, fostering a profound reflection on identity and the broader impact of rigid gender norms.

In conclusion, examining masculinity in Carlos Andres Gomez’s writings and the short film “Invincible” helps us understand the challenges that guys face in today’s world. Gomez explores the complex conflicts that males face when they attempt to live up to social expectations, illuminating the inner struggles that define their identities. On the other hand, the short film presents the impact of stereotypes and societal pressures on its protagonists while showing exterior characteristics of masculinity. Altogether, these pieces show how young men deal with and adapt to different expectations, contributing to the discussion on how masculinity is changing in our society.

Viviane Vo

Works cited

Gómez, Carlos Andrés “Guys Club: No Faggots, Bitches, or Pussies Allowed.” Man up: Cracking the Code of Modern Manhood, Gotham Books, 2012, pp. 65–83.

René-Lortie, Vincent, director. Invincible, TV5 Unis, 2022, https://www.tv5unis.ca/invincible.