Supplementary Statements

The George Mason Review is particularly interested in explanations of the processes involved in creating traditionally-defined “creative” works. Therefore, the supplementary statement is often as important as the work itself. This statement should…

  1. Discuss the overall genesis of the work
  2. Demonstrate an awareness of field-specific theories incorporated in the work
  3. Explain the principles and methods that were incorporated in or influenced the work
  4. Make the work accessible to those not in your discipline
  5. Explain how the work re-visions scholarship

2 Replies to “Supplementary Statements”

  1. The George Mason Review
    4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030

    Submission Date: January 4th, 2021

    Dear Managing Editor:

    I am writing to submit my manuscript entitled, ‘A Comparative Analysis: #MeToo, Nari Movements and the Price of Neoliberalist Feminism’ for consideration as a George Mason Review, Global Affairs scholarship article. As an undergraduate student at George Mason University, set to graduate in Fall of 2021, I have completed my capstone thesis early; in hopes of getting it published. In addition to continuing my research and expanding on the said thesis. My research focuses on the paradoxical entanglement of Neoliberalism and feminism (post-2016) amongst white feminists, involved with the #MeToo Movement. Further, the complications the movement faces from an intersectional perspective, thus hindering its success. In comparison, Neoliberalism is a western construct. Whereas regions in the Global South have hesitated to follow suit, such as activists in Bangladesh. As a result, Bangladesh’s Nari Movement seemingly avoided the problems of #MeToo, although both were cause and platform. However, the issue lies within Resource Mobilization and Framing Theories of effective social action.

    Given the intersectional nature of race, gender, class, and contemporary sociological theory, I believe that the findings presented in this paper will appeal to readers who subscribe to The George Mason Review. My assertions and findings will allow your readers to dissect the problems social movements (such as #MeToo) face with Neoliberalism on the rise, particularly within feminism. In addition to the power struggles associated with race, gender, and class due to Neoliberalism. Social stratification thus does not only exist within established institutions but structures designed to topple them, as well. Not only does my research identify a glaring problem within modern social movements, but it lends itself to further examination of how to solve it. However, first, the consequences surrounding the issue can be highlighted best by inserting a global view, less specific to western ideology. Too often, research focuses on solving western problems with western solutions; being inherently problematic and paradoxical within itself.

    This paper examines a different aspect of all genres referring to social sciences, such as sociology, economics, and global affairs. Ideas that are traditionally explored through publications in the George Mason Review. I have expanded the scope of my research to contemplate the international role of white, neoliberal feminists’ mobilization of inaccessible resources that forces people of marginalized identities to resort towards other social movements. Thus, these actions communicate white, neoliberal feminists’ commodification of oppressed narratives as a means to garner monetary and cultural capital by reinforcing privilege through capitalist structures of systematic oppression. Through comparative analysis with Bangladesh’s Nari Movement to illuminate the pitfalls of #MeToo’s adoption of Neoliberalism, as a means to combat social injustice. In the end, a secondary piece would be called for to further dissect other theories. In order to solve for the critics presented in this literature.

    Finally, identifying the problems associated with the role of neoliberal feminism in #MeToo is a major feat. However, comparatively analyzing Nari: Mahila Bus Service Limited, a movement similar in cause, yet differing in approach allows for reflection. As such, while neoliberalism is certainly not a new phenomenon, neoliberal feminism is. Through this paper, it is clear such feminism has no place in a women’s movement. Tarana Burke’s ‘Me Too’ originated with the promise of powerful, effective mobilization. Otherwise, a movement for all women, striving to dismantle sexual violence for all. Finally, the #MeToo movement’s intersectional failure is rooted in the resources mobilized by white, neoliberal feminists (time, energy, and money) to benefit themselves. Nearly the Movement fails to become intersectional when the resources mobilized are not accessible to all identities. In a world where our privilege is so public, it is easy to wonder if posting or purchasing is all privileged activists are doing. At its best, #MeToo has exposed male entitlement within our culture. This is important; however, it is not enough for survival and longevity. White, neoliberal feminists have yet to mobilize their most crucial resource––privilege.

    The named author has substantially contributed to conducting the underlying research and drafting this manuscript. Additionally, to my knowledge, the named author has no conflict of interest, financial or otherwise.

    Sincerely,
    Hailey Rastrelli

    Corresponding Author
    George Mason University
    4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
    Hailey Rastrelli|772-214-7304|hrastrel@gmu.edu

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