Global Studies Students explore Enlightenment Ideas through Guest Speaker

On Sept 24, 2018 the students in the 10th grade Global Studies class had history brought to life. Senior Jada Solomon, a SAC officer and member of the Ramey Forensics team, volunteered her time to explore the complex topic of feminism with her tenth grade peers. Solomon was recognized in the 2018 Western Forensics League for her performance of “We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Inspired by Adichie’s TED Talk and writings, Solomon has since explored the historical and political aspects of the feminist movement. She agreed to share her findings with the 10th graders who were studying the influence of the Enlightenment on gender. Solomon performed her forensics piece and led a discussion on the history of the three waves of feminism.

“I really enjoyed the presentation you gave—it taught me new things about feminism,” shared one classmate. “I’ve heard about feminism through social media, so I kind of had an idea about it. For me a feminist is a person who loves her body and that believed in women’s rights. I now also know a feminist believes in the theory of the political, social, and economic equality of the sexes.”

“Thank you for giving an amazing presentation on feminism. I truly look up to you and what you stand for. I believe you are a very brave and strong woman who isn’t afraid to share her opinions about what it means to be a feminist.” wrote another classmate.

A third classmate, who identifies as politically conservative appreciated the presentation despite differences of perspective. “Although I do not agree with all the ideas of feminism I still do consider myself a feminist. I also really enjoyed speaking with you and being able to have a polite conversation.”

The class continued their exploration of Enlightenment ideas through a close reading of Mary Wollstonecraft’s important but complex 1792 writing called A Vindication of the Rights of Women.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie inspired senior Jada Solomon with her TED talk. https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_we_should_all_be_feminists?language=en#t-172578