Cassidy LaPointe, Period 7, 12/20/22

 Cassidy LaPointe

12/20/22

Period 7

Modern Mythology 2023

As 2022 is approaching an end, I try to reflect on not only my own growth but that of the

world. The past few years have been filled with ups and downs (but what feels like mostly

downs), and despite our shared hardships, the world seems to become more polarized. The

cycle of rich and poor keeps on turning, and it feels like we regress more each day. The use

of the “crazy feminist/over dramatic woman” narrative seems to be more prominent every

day, resulting in the invalidation and dismissal of real problems. The terms “feminazi” and

“cancel culture” have been thrown around so often, ideas of accountability have been

skewed. People assume from a handful of stories on the internet that minority oppression

in the real world is now a minor issue, and being held accountable for your actions in any

form is now dubbed a product of “cancel culture” by some. While I’m not denying that

everyone should have a chance to grow, I think it’s important to call people out on their

biases and discrimination–especially when it’s called upon indirectly. In the same train of

thought, very few people with public influence have been truly canceled. Dozens of

“canceled” internet personalities still receive the same opportunities, people in the film

industry are still working despite sexual assault allegations, etc. Very few people have been

truly “canceled” and yet it is the first argument people make. Overall, I think being open to

criticism and taking accountability is a skill everyone should have/learn,

In the age of the internet, with so much misinformation flying around, I remind myself to

question everything: the status quo, other’s ideas, and even my own opinions. Where do

they come from? How do they affect the way I and others act? This reflection on my own

values and beliefs has shown me that I need to keep an open mind. My own logic isn’t

perfect, and I, like others, should be receptive to criticism. I’ve noticed that I tend to get

defensive when it comes to my beliefs, which is something I need to work on. I also need to

consider where people are coming from. A lot of people my age get their opinions from the

way they were raised, or from experiences they’ve had, and I think it’s important to be

understanding of that when trying to educate them.

My reflection on others beliefs and subsequent actions has also reminded me that despite

our advancement–despite the fact that women are not forced to find a husband and work

in the home–we still have a long way to go. While more obvious forms of prejudice are less

likely, minor forms are still prevalent and just as harmful. I, like many other girls, have

experienced this in my STEM classes more than anywhere. Indirect comments and actions

discourage girls greatly from pursuing STEM interests and make them feel welcome in

fields they had wanted to explore. Calling out these small comments and educating people

on where they come from and why they’re wrong is an important step we need to take to

create a better environment for girls, and a better future for women and minorities.