The Treatment of Women in Radical Environmental Groups
Access Type
Open Access
Entry Number
100
Start Date
4-5-2017 9:45 AM
End Date
4-5-2017 10:00 AM
Department
Political Science
Abstract
The study addresses the treatment of women in radical environmental organizations, using the case of Earth First! (EF!). The goal of my research was to test the proposition that women are treated unequally within such groups, despite their clear value as constructive team members and advocates for the cause. EF! was founded upon masculine principles that were epitomized by its anarchic structure and much-cherished macho attitudes. Conflict arose within the organization between those who proclaimed pure biocentricity and those who believed that environmental issues could not be addressed without further consideration of social justice issues. The social justice wing of EF! was headed by Judi Bari, a prominent female activist. Her beliefs not only expanded EF! but they also led to the feminization of the group, which included greater representation and acknowledgment of those women who participated in EF!'s activities. However, Bari’s efforts were met with many misogynistic threats and critiques, showcasing the continual mistreatment of women activists even as they fight for nature's rights. The study’s findings indicate that even in radical environmental groups women are placed in an inferior position because of gender roles and the blatant sexism that is prevalent in modern society.
Faculty Mentor(s)
Marek Payerhin
The Treatment of Women in Radical Environmental Groups
The study addresses the treatment of women in radical environmental organizations, using the case of Earth First! (EF!). The goal of my research was to test the proposition that women are treated unequally within such groups, despite their clear value as constructive team members and advocates for the cause. EF! was founded upon masculine principles that were epitomized by its anarchic structure and much-cherished macho attitudes. Conflict arose within the organization between those who proclaimed pure biocentricity and those who believed that environmental issues could not be addressed without further consideration of social justice issues. The social justice wing of EF! was headed by Judi Bari, a prominent female activist. Her beliefs not only expanded EF! but they also led to the feminization of the group, which included greater representation and acknowledgment of those women who participated in EF!'s activities. However, Bari’s efforts were met with many misogynistic threats and critiques, showcasing the continual mistreatment of women activists even as they fight for nature's rights. The study’s findings indicate that even in radical environmental groups women are placed in an inferior position because of gender roles and the blatant sexism that is prevalent in modern society.