So my last post was an expression of my frustration at my students perception of gender roles. I should clarify that MOST of the jobs on the "Women Should Do" list are fine jobs and work that anyone should be proud to do. What struck me most profoundly (besides the obvious "hooker" and "stripper" answers) was that most of the jobs "Women Should Do" were related to the arts, child care or home economics in some way. Even the teaching positions were arts related and not technical. These are wonderful professions to pursue; I even pursue one of them myself. However, I am surprised that none of these kids thought of women in non-traditional roles.
In my shock and frustration, I decided to poll my two of my own children in the car that evening. Paige, who is 13, and Jeremy, who is 8, had some answers that were more in line with the current times. They still had some traditionally "female" jobs listed, but they didn't let those gender roles drive their answers.
Paige:
Epidemiologist
Virologist
Teacher
Author
Photo Journalist
Food Reporter
Musician
Army
Beautician
Doctor
Biologist
...and the list goes on.
Jeremy:
Penguin washer at the zoo
Car builder
Lego designer
Mommy
Pooper Scooper
Janitor
Wrastler (that's how he said it)
...and the list goes on.
I especially like "Penguin Washer". When I asked them what jobs women should NEVER do, they both asked me a question: "Why would there be a job a girl couldn't do?" I have to tell you that I am very relieved that my children see the whole spectrum of possibilities that await them. I will do my level best to ensure that they never feel trapped by their sex, their socioeconomic status, or any other thing if they have a dream they want to pursue.
PS...
The only job a woman CAN'T do, in my book, is sperm donor.
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