Meet Kim Mueller, University of Portland’s new Feminist Discussion Group co-vice president!
Name: Kimberly Mueller Year: Junior
Major: Nursing
Hometown: Glenwood Springs, CO
Favorite Animal: Cats
Favorite Movie: Amazing Grace or Batman Begins
Favorite Time of Day: Sunset
What does feminism mean to you? Why have you chosen to label yourself as one?
Feminism means so much; its asking for justice, it’s having hope that society can grow, it’s a vital part of me. I am a feminist because I have always been one, I have just realized what word to use to express it. I am proud to wear that label because it’s crucial to fight against the injustices of society and to fight for a group that has been marginalized.
How has feminism impacted your life?
I have become much more educated about what is happening in our society, and I find that I can’t read, watch, or talk enough about the issues that feminism deals with. It has given me hope that with a raised awareness about feminist issues, society will be pushed to change for the better. I also find myself not standing for actions committed by the people around me that help to perpetuate the marginalization of women or patriarchal ideals.
Have you faced any struggles or obstacles tied to being openly feminist?
Most of the backlash has come from my family. My dad in particular has problems with me saying I’m a feminist. He once called me a “Nazi-Feminist” because I was trying to engage in a conversation about how the sciences (anatomy in particular) can be sexist. Patriarchal ideals are imbedded into every aspect of our society, even the areas that are supposed to be “unbiased”. Other than that some people no longer speak to me because I wanted to talk about different issues and others just tolerate me when I mention something that seems to be “feminist” in their eyes. I am thankful that nothing more physical or drastic has happened to me since I started labeling myself as a feminist.
Have you always hoped to have some sort of leadership role in the movement?
When I started getting involved I was honestly just curious more than anything. Feminism is so important to me and I am so excited and happy to have a leadership role.
How did you come across UP’s Feminist Discussion Group (FDG)?
I think I came across it during the Fall Activity Fair my freshman year actually!
How have feminism and your views changed since first joining the club?
When I fist joined I was really naive and went to meetings to learn the basics of what feminism even was. Since then I have gotten more and more entrenched into what feminism actually is. I’m now minoring in Gender and Women Studies and I can’t get away from any book that speaks about feminism. I think that I have become more of a “radical feminist”.
What does it mean to you to be the new vice president of FDG?
I am so excited to be able to help other people understand what feminism truly is. And I enjoy being able to learn more and more about feminism from speaking with my peers. I am also excited to be able to interact with other people on campus with FDG events. This means that I can be more than just a spectator when it comes to events that are happening.
What things would you like to see changed or improved during your time in FDG leadership?
I think it would be awesome if FDG was more visible on campus. I also think that there are many different events or programs that we might be able to start so that our campus becomes more aware about these issues.
Why is it important for people to be feminists?
It’s important because patriarchal ideals affect everyone negatively, male and female. And for many women, rights secured by feminism can be the difference between life and death. To be a feminist means that we are willing to stand up for human dignity.