Introduction Post - Valerie Medina

Hello! I’m Valerie. I’m a freshman at NJCU, currently majoring in Computer Science. Some of my interests include technology, gaming, and space/astronomy. I also enjoy drawing, but I'm not very skilled at it. I like to take pictures of some of the animals I see while out as well.

One of the campus cats

Understanding Patriarchy

"My brother was taught that his value world be determined by his will to do violence (albeit in appropriate settings). He was taught that a boy should not express his feelings."

    Boys are taught from a very young age that they shouldn't cry or show any emotions, that emotions are a weakness. The only emotion boys are allowed to have is anger, and they aren't taught how to properly manage that emotion, resulting in aggression and violence. On top of this, when they resort to violence, they're praised and respected by other men, which keeps the cycle going.

"You're just a little girl. When I tell you to do something, I mean for you to do it."

    Girls are taught from the start that they must obey and listen to the men in their lives, all because of the way they were born. Girls must learn to follow outdated rules that were set up for the benefit of men. They must know how to behave and when certain behavior is acceptable. If they're young, it just means they haven't been taught how to behave. If they're older, then that just means they hadn't learned anything and need to be 'disciplined.' 

What Memes Owe to Art History

"Memes are the democratizing medium of our collective digital present. Easy to make, easy to share; instantly recognizable and a little nonsensical; a hilarious and at times sickly-sweet jab at the world’s blunders, scandals, protests, and hypocrisies."

    Memes have become a common form of communication that can comment on almost anything in society, from humorous and relatable moments to political events.

"Through humor, memes incite a collective reaction to everyday life as well as reveling in it, in a format no less playful than it is political..."

    Memes are a useful and unique way to express oneself, affecting society and people's views. They are an enjoyable way to consume current events while remaining politically engaged.

Memes Are Our Generation's Protest Art

"They reflect what’s happening in society, and help justify feelings of rage and fear while helping us feel less alone."

    Memes help spread awareness about what's happening in today's society, usually in a more fun way. This can help people decide where they want to stand when it comes to politics and shows that they have others who are also in their support. Memes can also allow people to express how they feel about certain topics.

"This means whipping up a relatable, shareable reaction to a Trump gaffe or horrific policy takes only a few minutes or less."

    Memes are super simple to create and share; the funnier or more relatable it is, the quicker they spread. They can even help people realize that what's happening isn't right. Memes are a useful and powerful way to spread information about a topic and help people educate themselves or others about the topic.