An interesting argument -- I didn't anticipate the turn at the end. So much of what I find painful about higher ed (and why I left) is that it's more than just the power structures that render people invisible -- it's the fundamental shift in values. I wonder if the only way space-taking will really grab the attention of a corporate-minded president is through collective space-taking, rather than individual acts? For my own part, I couldn't breathe any longer, so I took my leave. Whether anyone still notices the space I once filled is another question.
Beautifully written and a potent reminder of the importance of setting clear boundaries. As a Black Queer person in academia, especially the cishetero discipline of political science, I often find myself doing a lot of work, pushing back against men in powerful positions. Ironically, though, some of the most violent experiences I have had (recently) is with some of my female colleagues invading my space and not honoring my boundaries 👀💅🏿. Working in the mining industry for seven years, I did not expect such invasion and aggression by straight women in particular. This is probablya symptom of the gross patriarchy in the discipline - i don't know. Since reentering the academy, I have had to do a lot of work in the areas of space making and place management!
An interesting argument -- I didn't anticipate the turn at the end. So much of what I find painful about higher ed (and why I left) is that it's more than just the power structures that render people invisible -- it's the fundamental shift in values. I wonder if the only way space-taking will really grab the attention of a corporate-minded president is through collective space-taking, rather than individual acts? For my own part, I couldn't breathe any longer, so I took my leave. Whether anyone still notices the space I once filled is another question.
Thanks for sharing this, Joshua! I have been reflecting on values a fair bit recently and your comments give me more to consider. Most appreciated!
Beautifully written and a potent reminder of the importance of setting clear boundaries. As a Black Queer person in academia, especially the cishetero discipline of political science, I often find myself doing a lot of work, pushing back against men in powerful positions. Ironically, though, some of the most violent experiences I have had (recently) is with some of my female colleagues invading my space and not honoring my boundaries 👀💅🏿. Working in the mining industry for seven years, I did not expect such invasion and aggression by straight women in particular. This is probablya symptom of the gross patriarchy in the discipline - i don't know. Since reentering the academy, I have had to do a lot of work in the areas of space making and place management!
Thank you for writing this powerful piece! 👏🏾💙🧡💯
Thank you so much for sharing these comments, Seon - I am glad the post resonated with you!
loved this!! will be implementing this into my calendar 🩷🩷
So glad it is useful to you, Leah!