Discrimination Abroad

Do a search for any particular characteristic you have (you may want to refer to the three identities you chose in the Reflect on Your Identities exercise) in connection with your host country or region. How are these identities viewed in the host country? Try to interview someone from your host country for more information, if possible.

Write a paragraph on how your host country views someone with your characteristics. Write another paragraph on how you can best prepare yourself (or defend yourself) against misunderstanding or mistreatment. Be sure to list the resources you used.

 

            In Senegal, women are viewed very differently than they are in the U.S. Senegalese women have always had a strong presence in the public sphere, in society and in the economy, though they are also often relegated to (and most valued for) household work. The women are either in the marketplace or in the household, almost never in a formal system of employment or in politics, and a large number of women in Senegal are illiterate. They are also involved in the street dancing and singing of popular culture. Overall, women are viewed as mothers, which is a respectable role, but are also viewed as incapable of areas such as politics and employment.

            I’m not sure that these views will apply to me as much, since I am not of Senegalese descent; however, I’m sure the Senegalese views of women will affect me in some ways such as expectations of me/my actions and understanding of my culture. The only part of Senegalese views of women that I really feel the need to defend is their view that women are not capable of certain things (politics, employment, etc.). To defend myself I’ll have to explain the views of other cultures, and maybe cite some references of strong women in history to make my point. If I came into a situation where I was being denied something because I’m a woman, I wouldn’t necessarily want to change their views, but maybe present another perspective and explain my actions. As for the household work, I’m looking forward to that aspect of the life of being a woman in Senegal! I am always happy to look after children or do household chores, so that works out well for me.