In the previous issue of The Maroon, economics professor Walter Block shared his opinions on feminism, which has prompted a general outrage among students — men and women alike. The issue of gender equality is one that transcends all realms of life, even physical well being. Before I continue with this column, I’d like to make it clear that I’m not a socialist, communist or liberal; in fact, I’m a registered Republican. I also support the right to bear arms. As a woman who considers herself a feminist, I take offense with all of Block’s “arguments.”
I’ve only recently become comfortable in my skin. For years I struggled with being awkward and uncomfortable with my physical appearance. My peers taunted me for not appearing a certain way, for not fitting the female ideal.
The only time I sense a feeling of freedom from these societal expectations is when I run. I initially used the word “equality” in place of “freedom,” but this feeling is so much more than being held equally as valuable as a man. When I run, I don’t feel like a better woman. In fact, I don’t feel anything other than the simple, primitive sensation of being human. I don’t feel female or male. I forget all the times I’ve felt that my personhood has been challenged or lessened: when I’ve been mocked for wanting to pursue a career in sports, when I’ve been groped like an inflatable doll or when I’ve partaken in “Take Back the Night,” where apparently local rapists have engaged in uproarious laughter over my stand against sexual violence.
Gaining this feeling from running doesn’t do anything to eradicate the hurtful, bizarre views of chauvinists like Walter Block. It does, however, provide a place to escape from the pressures and expectations of society. Sometimes I hate the world I’m growing up in. I’m exposed to views from people like Block or Rush Limbaugh, and I feel like gender equality is entirely impossible. I feel like I’ll never be taken seriously, especially when those who oppose my views suggest avoiding rape by carrying a pistol in my “pocketbook.”
I feel this inequality almost everywhere. Even in class discussions, the “outrageous” views of feminists often garner giggles from classmates. I feel it when I walk into the weight room at the gym because women aren’t “supposed” to want to have muscles. I feel it as I write columns on health and fitness, as it’s a female issue to want to look thin. I feel it when I order food, as women aren’t “supposed” to eat a lot. I feel it when I try on clothes because I’m not “supposed” to take up this much space. I feel it when I take my birth control because being cognizant of my reproductive health makes me a “slut.”
But all of these experiences meld together and float away as I tie up my purple Asics and head out the door. I don’t think about who or what I am as I round Lee Circle. I just feel the burning in my legs and the sweat on my chest, the pops in my pounding knees and the strength emanating from my human body.
Caitlin Spieker is a sociology senior and personal trainer who is working on a certification from the American College of Sports Medicine. She can be reached at [email protected]
