When reading about our assignment and thinking of an incident where I have seen bias, prejudice, and/or oppression the movie about Erin Brockovich's experience came to mind. In specifically dealing with Erin, the people who had to change their beliefs and values in order for there to be equity for her were the people with whom she worked. Being a single mother she had to prove to her new boss at a small law firm that she could do a good job and that she was motivated and eager to learn. Because she dressed differently and did not have the same education as the other staff in the law firm she had to work harder to prove her abilities were a viable part of the firm. Also because she is a women she had to prove that she did her research so that others, especially the men, would take her seriously. Once people saw that she was serious their attitudes changed toward her but some still had reservations. She had to work twice as hard as a man would have had to do in order to be taken seriously at her job and this is what if feel diminished equity for her.
When watching the movie the feelings about how she as a women was treated were frustrating because you could see the determination she had to succeed and passion for helping other to have equity. In most cases some women would have conformed to what society thought about them and would not have pursued the career in the law firm. The determination that Erin has to prove that she could contribute to the firm and that she could work with the clients in a more personal way was encouraging to see. She did not give up even though at times she felt like it was to hard to continue the up hill battle. I feel overwhelmed thinking of having to raise children by myself and also have to work extra hard to prove that I could do a good job at work and that being a women is an asset and that it should not be a strike against me.
Erin is a consumer advocate who believes in helping others and finding the truth.
Julie,
ReplyDeleteI love that movie! It has been a while since I have seen it, but the story behind her success is one that I will not forget. Having to be a woman and be successful in most jobs is challenging. However, she proved that it could be done, and be done well. Her story reminds me of my mom. She was a single mother of two children, in law school, and working full-time. A lot of people doubted her, but she was able to be successful.
Thanks for sharing.
I haven't seen this movie but based off your description it make me feel like only certain can and able to do certain jobs. I feel like that goes on today. It seems like you have to know someone to get a job or they look for a particular gender for that certain job.
ReplyDeleteJulie,
ReplyDeleteThe movie and story of Erin Brochvich is very inspirational. It is one of my favorite movies that leave me in tears every time I watch it. It is a story of many single mothers trying to make it in society and provide for their children. Erin’s never quit attitude to make a difference in the world was moving.