In the video they discuss the role of African American women in the women’s suffrage movement in the United States. It features well-known black suffragists like Ida B. Wells, Mary Church Terrell, and Sojourner Truth, who fought for civil rights and women’s rights. The video highlights the obstacles these women encountered as they worked to remove barriers and fight for equal rights in a society that often ignored or dismissed their voices. It also emphasizes the significance of acknowledging the diverse experiences and contributions of all women in the battle for equality and justice. The video aims to illuminate the untold stories of black women in the suffrage movement and motivate viewers to keep fighting for justice and fairness for everyone.

As an immigrant, I acknowledge the immense privilege I have experienced in America. My access to education, food, and healthcare is something that many people in my home country cannot attain. Even having a phone at a young age is a luxury that is not readily available in my homeland. In contrast, those without wealth or the ability to pay for schooling are often unable to receive a good education. As the video highlights, I can take a shower for as long as I want, while some regions in my country have limited water supply. I am grateful for the freedom to express my likes and dislikes, which is not a given for everyone. Additionally, being a woman has afforded me certain privileges over men. After watching the video and reading about privilege and oppression, I now have a better understanding of these concepts. My perception of privilege is still developing, as I recognize that those with lighter skin complexion have more advantages than I do. Furthermore, I was previously unaware of how individuals are treated differently based on their sexuality, age, race, gender, and religious beliefs.

Alok perceives moving beyond the gender binary as the ability to look beyond a person’s gender or what they can see. The important aspect is how a person feels and shows it in their daily life. Alok also highlights how gender stereotypes and expectations are limiting, constraining, and harmful. Like many others, Alok faced self-hatred and shame for years before finding peace and acceptance with themselves as they couldn’t conform to the binary expectations. The transgender community is questioned and observed more frequently than other groups, leading to increased distress. Gender non-conforming people aren’t distressed because they have a disorder, but because of the discrimination and stigma they face. There’s nothing wrong with them, but the world punishes those who don’t conform to the normative masculine or feminine. The writer’s exposure to non-binary people or community was limited due to their upbringing and environment. They were confused when they saw a man wearing makeup or a dress as they weren’t used to it. After reading this book, they realized the pain non-gender conforming individuals experience daily and acknowledged their inability to imagine it. The writer feels comfortable being referred to as a female using “her” and “she.”

The definition of Feminism is generally understood as a movement for social, political, and economic equality of men and women. bell hooks defines feminism as a movement to end sexism, sexist exploitation, and oppression. Hooks emphasizes that women must confront their own sexist thoughts before coming together under one banner. The importance of intersectionality is also highlighted, as women cannot unite if they continue to oppress other women due to varying marginalized identities such as race or class. Prior to reading this essay, my knowledge of feminism was limited to the belief in gender equality, equal pay for equal work, and shared household and parenting duties between men and women. Reading this essay has deepened my understanding and belief in gender equality. The harassment and discrimination of women based on their race and gender is unacceptable. Hooks’ suggestion that the feminist movement should include women of all races and colors is compelling, as it would lead to a significant outcome in the fight against similar struggles. Women should not have their bodily autonomy questioned by men.

The film is very powerful and inspirational portrayal of the challenges that women face in obtaining an education and being understood. Millions of women are forced to endure an unfair existence due to the lack of understanding surrounding menstruation, coupled with myths and shaming. This is particularly true in countries where obtaining basic necessities is already a struggle. The film highlights the pervasive lack of education surrounding menstruation and the patriarchal structures that control women’s lives, leaving little room for escape from oppression. The documentary poignantly reminds us that the lack of access to sanitary pads can prevent women from attending school, limiting their opportunities and perpetuating inequality. It is frustrating to see how a small change can make such a significant impact, especially when men could provide more support in these communities. The contrast between progress and societal ignorance is stark and disturbing. The struggle, mistrust, and rejection faced by individuals due to their authenticity, life experience, and circumstance while striving to discover a sense of belonging is a connection I observe between the film and reading. The Indian community depicts a perception of unfairness concerning the treatment one receives and the disparities and injustice in the health system, based on personal differences and race. It is unacceptable that transgender individuals receive insufficient care, and no one should face neglect regardless of their identity. The effectiveness of identity politics as a tool for marginalized individuals to combat inequality and injustice is something I now acknowledge. It is not necessary to experience prejudice or hatred personally to speak out against it. People attempt to strip others of their identity, which is both immoral and violent. It is difficult to accept being shamed for lack of medical treatment, especially when one pays taxes and works hard. This is brutal discrimination. Medical professionals take the Hippocratic Oath, swearing to aid others. The scientific and biological perspective suggests that it is unnatural not to discuss menstruation, how women feel, how to assist them, and how to reform the system to improve their lives. However, men often emphasize the importance of sex and pornography due to its perceived naturalness and its endorsement by the state.