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OCTOBER 2018
9-10 THE SHE SHIFT WITH MELISSA CLARK
By Charlotte Kramon
11-12 MEET BELLA GLANVILLE
By Eunice Park
12-13 THE UNEDITED TRUTH ABOUT PHOTOSHOP
By Sophie Friedberg
EDITOR'S NOTE 3 13 UNTITLED
By Eunice Park and Charlotte Kramon By Anonymous
MIDTERM ELECTION ACTIVISM 4 14 5 REASONS WHY GIRLS SHOULD LEARN TO CODE
By Eunice Park By Amrita Bhasin
SHATTERING THE INSTAGRAM IDEAL
5 15 WHY ARE WE STILL PROMOTING THE WEIGHT LOSS FANTASY?
By Kaitlin Musante By Alyse Rovner
THROUGH THE SEVENTH GRADE LENS
5-6
By Lola Brown
THIS IS NOT FEMINISM 6-7
By Charlotte Kramon
REMOVING YOUR MASK 7-8
By Mason Maxam
IS THIS APPROPRIATE OR NOT? 8-9
By Irina Sandoval
GIRLTALK MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2018
Welcome to The Future is Female: Women in the Workplace, the eighth issue of The 2018 US midterm elections will of getting your whole community worker. This will give you a first hand, important
Girl Talk Magazine! be held this November 6th. This election is involved in the election. Research experience
incredibly special. Not only does it have the local election laws and contact in facilitating your elections. Furthermore, most poll
Dear Readers, capability to monumentally shift or maintain your state and/or local elections workers get paid around $100-$200 for their time,
the balance of power in Congress, but the office as your county clerk, local and even more if they are bilingual. The rate of the
In such a technologically advanced and interconnected world, the influence of the media monumen- results of this midterm election will impact board of registrars, and local stipend is determined by the election jurisdiction
tally shapes our everyday lives. The news we receive, the Instagram posts we view, the magazine articles we legislation, funding, and policy at every level elections office to inquire about you are in.
scroll through, and all the other media consume and put forward shift our perceptions and enlighten our of government for at least the next decade. All different regulations related
perspectives. 435 representatives of the House and 35 of the to a voter registration drive. If You can determine your eligibility on https://www.
100 Senators are up for election for voters to you plan on registering voters eac.gov/assets/1/28/Compendium.2016.pdf.
Media’s growing influence has sprung forward the rise of important movements like #MeToo and decide. In some districts, other local political through the Internet, make sure
#TimesUp, illuminating survivor stories and sparking an international discussion on important gender & sex- offices and policy issues are also important you have enough laptops and a 5. Working on Campaigns
uality topics such as sexual assault and intersectional feminism. However, with unrealistically photoshopped to be voted on. Furthermore, the 2018 mid- secure Internet connection. As the midterm elections heat up, nearly all cam-
models populating social media sites and increasingly inappropriate, hurtful comments being directed to- term election has unprecedented numbers of paigns will be looking for student volunteers. This
wards women, it’s clear the quick consumption of media is not so easy, nor so simple. diverse candidates of women, LGBTQ, and 3. Candidate Forums is an excellent way to get a firsthand experience
people of color running for election. A candidate forum is a great working on a political campaign, develop a person-
GirlTalk’s 8th issue is an attempt to unpack these complications. Drawing from a wide variety of way to engage and inform your al understanding of political issues and candidates,
experiences and voices, this issue contains important discussions from middle and high schoolers around Because of this election’s special significance, community in upcoming local and make an impact on your community. Each
the world discussing their experiences navigating body image within social media, sensuality in a gendered it is imperative to be involved through various and/or state elections.The forum political campaign may have a different list of tasks,
world, the weight loss fantasy promoted by the media, and more. Interviews include reflections from Bella midterm election activism. Attached are various should cover a broad range of but typical tasks include:
Glanville: former Miss Universe Great Britain, international model & nonprofit founder, and Melissa Clarke: examples of different types of midterm election issues. Candidates should have
a businesswoman pushing for the rise of women leaders in the male-dominated industry. This issue also fea- activism you can be involved in, with further detail equal time to present their views. • Speaking directly to voters through canvassing
tures a powerful testimony of a sexual assault survivor discussing her reaction to Kavanaugh, and her hope and examples outlined in JSA’s Midterm Menu The candidates are asked about opportunities
for a more politically active, impactful future. Guide (jsa.org). issues, but not asked to • Categorizing voter data into spreadsheets
pledge to or agree with specific • Volunteering at candidate tables during promo-
Navigating body image, sexuality, and identity, especially in this digitally scrutinizing age, isn’t easy. 1. Ballot Education positions of the sponsoring orga- tional events and forums
But we hope that through reading through this latest issue, you can find pieces of hope and beauty, and Even if you’re too young to vote, being educated nizations. The moderator should • Phone banking for the candidate
gain more clarity or possibly leave with more questions to explore these ever-evolving, important topics. The and getting involved with the midterm election stay neutral and does not imply
increasing influence of media is inevitable and undeniable. So the question is, how will you consume it? cycle through ballot education is a great opportuni- approval or disapproval of the If you insert your local address onto https://
ty to get involved in political activism for candidates candidates. ballotpedia.org/, it will provide you with a list of all
Love. and issues in your area. Resources for ballot educa- local and/or state candidates running in upcoming
tion include Ballotpedia and Vote411. 4. Poll Working elections in your area. It will also direct you to web-
- Charlotte and Eunice (Co Editors in Chief) One of the best ways to be sites and contact information for these candidates,
2. Voter Registration involved with the upcoming which will have information on how to get involved
Hosting a voter registration drive is a fantastic way midterm elections is to be a poll in their campaign.
3 4
GIRLTALK MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2018
SHATTERING THE
me. With every swipe up, I noticed girl after They all had very different answers. For and putting them together, what I came away
girl dressed in almost the same type of outfit instance, one seventh-grade girl said, “I think with is this: Girls definitely have a lot on their
INSTAGRAM IDEAL
and looking like exact copies of each other: the girls on social media are trying to be cool, brains to keep their mind’s racing, whether
short shorts and an even shorter shirt, proud- trendy, pretty, and sexy and I don’t feel the it’s the need to feel relevant by competing
ly showing off their bare stomachs, and not need to try to keep up with them all. I just with themselves and each other showing off
much older than me. And although they were look at them and think it’s just a waste of their bodies on social media, or taking the
from different countries around the world, time and energy.” opposite position and refusing to define who
Kaitlin Musante they all seemed to be influenced by the same
thing-- each other, and in trying to outdo And, while discussing the issue with one
they are by what they wear.
HARVARD-WESTLAKE SCHOOL
each other, they seemed to be competing with of the boys, he shared a story about the time And although I feel as though I still don’t
Diet culture has swallowed whenever one pops up on my This negativity can go both cause women to feel worse about themselves, causing me to wonder about the he was taking a picture of his sister, “... she have a definitive answer to my question, what
my Instagram feed. feed. Even on a confidence high, ways, however. While model’s their bodies. impact of social media on the female body got almost fully undressed..” he said, “... in a I did learn for sure was that, no matter how
I don’t say this to be dra- one photograph- no matter how comment sections are filled with The issue is the singularity- image and ask, are we, as young girls, putting swimsuit, I didn’t know why she was trying you feel about it the issue of how we feel
matic. It’s simply the truth; even far removed it may be from my plenty of positive comments the promotion of the idea that unnecessary pressure on ourselves, creating to make herself look one of those Instagram about our bodies and what influences us, it
as we as a society continue to own reality- can quickly plum- praising them for their looks, only one body type, no matter our own body image rabbit hole or is all the girls, but then I found out the boys were certainly keeps us thinking about it a whole
progress, Instagram has stayed met my self-esteem. there are just as many shaming what body type that may be, can pressure coming from outside of us? Or, is actually pressuring her because they had been lot.
stuck in the world of unachiev- "These photos play off our them for their weight. Garner- be beautiful. We as a society are there no pressure at all, and some of us just calling her flat [chested].”
able ideals. own insecurities by presenting ing criticisms like “You need a unique. The way our hips curve, like the way it looks? So, with that, I guess until we come up
‘Thinspiration’ continues unreachable standards as the hamburger. You’re all bones” our thighs touch, or our stomach Another one of the seventh-grade girls with an answer may be the best answer is just
to fill up my feed, hidden in ideal," registered dietitian Nicole and “She needs to eat some food. rolls does not make us any less I decided I was thinking about this told me, “I don’t feel the need to keep up to wear what makes you feel good and gives
celebrity endorsements and on Al-Shafie said. She’s beautiful but honestly, beautiful; instead, they demon- too hard, and so I asked a few of my sev- with them, but it definitely does create false you the most confidence-- and also, to keep
the pages of fitness and nutrition “We live in a very image she looks sickly,” the message is strate our individuality. enth-grade peers to think about it instead. stereotypes and things that other girls might trying to find a balance for the struggle we, as
bloggers. Stick-thin models with focused world and a thin-ob- clear: the perfect body is practi- It’s time we as a society want to live up to.” 7th graders, called Middle School.
arched backs and protruding ribs sessed society, so especially for cally unattainable. began accepting this. “How do you feel about body image and
still pop up on my explore page, women and young girls, a lot of Growing up with this ideal We must free ourselves from the pressures of the internet?” I asked. After taking all the thoughts I collected Until next time...
THIS IS NOT
and despite controversy, adver- our worth is projected onto what has been difficult. Instagram is the Instagram ideal and break
sponse to unsolicited requests from men with
tisements for weight loss products we look like,” Al-Shafie said. “In- the most detrimental social net- down the barriers that continue
bad intentions.”
and appetite suppressants from stagram plays off the fantasy that working app for young people's to keep us from achieving self-ac-
FEMINISM
brands like Fit Tea and Flat Tum- if someone can lose weight and mental health, according to a ceptance. Let us consciously
There are multiple problems with Cor-
my Co have yet to disappear. can do it very quickly, a lot of 2017 report by the Royal Society remove ourselves from the boxes
tez’s response.
Despite my knowledge of the positive attention will come their for Public Health in the UK. A that Instagram tries to place
editing, false information and way. It promotes the attraction study from the University of New us in. Only then can we finally
by Charlotte
It’s not every day a socialist advocate for
deception that lies behind many of the thin ideal, and this can South Wales and Macquarie Uni- encourage each other to celebrate
exchange for an interview discussion on gender parity has the opportunity to explain
of these photographs, there is quickly bring girls’ confidence versity found that looking at the our bodies, no matter what shape
Kramon
S
his podcast. As the Democratic party moves the democratic agenda perspective to a con-
still an unexplainable draw I feel levels down.” app for just 30 minutes a day can or size they may be.
further to the left, Shapiro wanted to engage servative audience. Ben Shapiro is very good
tarting sev- OAKWOOD in intellectual dialogue with Cortez, whom he at painting feminism, and liberals in general,
enth-grade can be SECONDARY referred to as “the future of the Democratic as the ultimate threat to civilized society. Cor-
really hard, trying SCHOOL party.” tez could have presented Shapiro’s growing
to balance new audience with a sane, bright, tolerant, far-left
homework with Cortez responded with the following female who advocates for women but respects
new friends and a Happy feminist, angry feminist, radical tweet: “Just like catcalling, I don’t owe a re- those who don’t share her ideas. She could
new environment. feminist...I found myself feeling like a con- have modeled a feminist who isn’t set on
fused feminist when rising Democrat Alexan- exterminating all forms of male success, as
But as a girl, I think it can dria Ocasio-Cortez compared an opportunity much of Shapiro’s audience is lead to believe.
be a little harder when images of to engage with a conservative journalist to
ourselves on the internet seem catcalling. Instead of accepting Shapiro’s polite and
to pressure us into trying to stay professional request, she compared him to a
current and relevant all at the Cortez’s popularity came to the media’s catcaller.
same time. And sometimes, I attention when she shocked New York by
think all that pressure may cause coming out on top of a primary victory over The feminism I work hard to promote
us to go a little overboard. Representative Joseph Crowley. seeks to engage with those who don’t under-
stand that women are still perceptually and
One evening, while con- On August 8th, 2018, conservative jour- systematically held back in society, not further
sumed by the black hole known nalist Ben Shapiro of the Daily Caller offered turn them against us. We may be angry, but
as Instagram, something struck to donate $10,000 to Cortez’s campaign in we should also be respectful and productive.
5 6
GIRLTALK MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2018
Using one term (incorrectly, might I add) to A man giving prestigious credit to a These are the people who have the hardest feminine figure. Each class is designed to I had the opportunity to speak to a wom- parts of ourselves, for some, it is only for our
ridicule our opponents who actually WANT to female minority candidate and a man hol- time understanding us, and therefore we need release the feminine body and allow the mind an named Ali Kozoll who has been attending male counterparts. S Factor allows women to
engage with us doesn’t advance our agenda. lering objectifying catcalls at women are not to show these people that feminism isn’t out to surrender. This freedom allows women to S Factor classes for many years. Ali said, “ S reclaim their sexuality and fosters a commu-
correlative. Nevertheless, Cortez abused the to get them. explore the nature of their womanhood that Factor changed the way I perceive myself by nity where you can love yourself. For some
Rather than contributing to the feminist term and to paint herself as a victim. was previously hidden within our society. helping me develop a more intimate relation- of these women, it’s the first time they have
message, Cortez reinforced the generaliza- As we approach midterms, we must re- Women from all over the country flock ship with my body. I used to think my body allowed themselves to appreciate their bodies
tions Ben Shapiro and his audience make I feel shame on behalf of the feminist member to be open to conversation. My gen- to S Factor studios to get in touch with their was just a thing that I lived in. After just a few without looking through the eyes of men.
about angry and aggressive liberals. movement. We were given the opportunity to eration will soon be the adults of the world, feminine bodies. So what does an S Factor classes, S Factor helped me see all the grace
engage and be heard by those with different and if our politics is represented by hate and class look like, and why is it so empowering? and beauty my body has.” S Factor is about uncovering the parts of
In the Jewish Journal, Karen Lehrman views. Our response? A distorted accusation of intolerance rather than open-mindedness, we Each class takes place in a dimly lit room ourselves we are asked to cover up. It’s about
Bloch addresses this issue in her piece, “Dear sexism that completely exploits its validity. will not settle any conflicts between the right with no mirrors. This creates a safe space, free When I asked her why so many people loving the parts of yourself that you have
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.” and the left. of judgment where women can enjoy their were drawn to S Factor her answer was sim- grown to feel indifferent about. Most of all, it’s
A large portion of Shapiro’s audience are bodies in a way that they never have before. ple. She said, “ In our society women don’t about empowering yourself and the women
Bloch writes, “You and your millennial white males who feel attacked and threatened If people who call themselves feminist Every class begins with a warm-up and ends always have a place to go where they feel around. S Factor creates this beautiful, unde-
cohort were never taught real feminism...You by the accusatory members of the feminist continue to take the shaming approach rather with a free dance. Although the pole plays a 100% accepted. niable bond of women who love their bodies
were taught to see anything you don’t like as movement, and in some cases, they have a than the conversational approach, misunder- big role, it is really about breaking free from unconditionally and in turn love each other
sexist.” right to feel that way. Shapiro asked for a standings of feminism will continue. what others tell you about your body. It is S Factor is that place for so many wom- unconditionally.
conversation, not to be shamed as a catcaller. about taking hold of those over-sexualized en. Women don’t have to wear masks there,
parts of your body and loving them in your they can feel free to express themselves.” “Every woman has an innate erotic
REMOVING
own way. There is something so empowering essence that must be nourished, honored
and beautiful about being in a room of wom- Women in our society are constantly told and expressed so that she may be truly
en who love their body unconditionally. to hide and cover up sexual parts of them. free in her magical feminine body.”
YOUR
When we get the chance to uncover those – Sheila Kelley
MASK:
Sensuality in a Gendered World IS THIS APPROPRIATE OR NOT? by Irina Sandoval
by Mason Maxam OAKWOOD SCHOOL
I
OAKWOOD SECONDARY SCHOOL
s it appropriate or not? “If you have they have an approved uniform shirt. Despite vantes] called me over and said ‘Sweetie you
The feminist movement is ever chang- over eight hundred years ago. Women the figure it looks nice, but honey, this there are many limitations and restric- are so pretty, but that skirt ruins it’” shares
ing. In today’s society, debates have begun in various tribes in Africa would use you have to have a figure to carry out tions that come with enforcing the dress code. a LIBRA junior. If her clothes were truly
over what things are and aren’t feminism. pole dancing as a way to impress their certain dresses… but it depends on Open-toed shoes are not allowed, but the inappropriate, she’d be asked to change, but
Through all of this, the definition of feminism future husbands. Pole dancing was seen your figure.” more important issue many are concerned that was not the case. So are such comments
remains the same. Feminism is the advocacy in many different cultures after that with are shorts and ripped jeans. Ripped jeans truly necessary? Chemistry teacher Mr. Chang
of women’s rights on the basis of equality of including China and India. Pole dancing These are the words of LIBRA Academy’s are fine, as long as underwear is not visible. comments, “You have to understand that
all genders. Body image and sexuality are made its debut in the US during the Great assistant principal Ms. Cervantes. At LIBRA, The policy is that shorts need to touch your they’re [LIBRA’s staff members] coming from
topics that have been discussed more than Depression in the 1920’s. Pole dancers many describe the administrators as “rude” middle finger when they’re down by your side, a traditional setting. You have to consider that
after training in exotic dance for a movie
ever recently. As time progresses, women are were seen in circuses and shortly after pole when it comes to their comments when they and not any shorter than that. “When they're this is a professional setting.”
released in 2000.
learning to love and accept their bodies. We dancing became the center of burlesque and approach students about what they’re wear- too short there's several things that could
learn this acceptance by changing the way cabaret scene. The dance then moved to clubs ing. How justified LIBRA’s staff members are happen,” assistant principal Ms. Cervantes “Being a bigger size girl, it really gets
After falling in love with the movement,
society perceives beauty and femininity. in the early 1950’s when burlesque became when they make their remarks has become a elaborates. “First of all it's inappropriate. If frustrating when I’m not allowed to wear
Sheila opened many studios advertised as
more widely accepted. From then on, pole common topic of discussion by many as they you have to be tugging at them maybe you're certain things at school,” student Maria
sensual fitness. These classes are all about the
A while back, I discovered a work out dancing was sexualized in the US. In 1994 question, is it body shaming or not? uncomfortable with it… everything goes up Hernandez expresses her concerns. “When it’s
exploration of the feminine body and pur-
class called S Factor. This class uses pole a woman living in Canada named Fawnia so you're very uncomfortable, you're more really hot I want to wear my shorts.” She isn’t
pose. Sheila’s company S factor has opened
dancing as an exercise but also a way to help Dietrich began to incorporate athletics into So what is appropriate and what’s inap- aware of what you're wearing.” the only student that feels this way. When it's
up new doors and helped to normalize a
woman love their bodies. Obviously, after I pole dancing. It wasn’t until Sheila Kelly, propriate to wear to school? LAUSD “believes hot, people want to wear shorts without being
discussion around sexuality and sensuality
discovered this whole new realm of feminism the founder of S factor came along that pole that appropriate student dress contributes to When a student is wearing something told that it's “for attention” or too inappro-
that was previously off limits. Her study of
I was curious. Although pole dancing is dancing became widely seen as a feminist a productive learning environment” (LAUSD considered inappropriate by a staff member, priate. “I’ve been dress coded about 7 or 8
feminine body and movement resulted in
associated with stripping, strip clubs aren’t activity. Policy Bulletin: Student Dress Codes/Uni- they are typically approached and a remark times,” says student Ielynn Cota who’s been
thousands of women learning to strengthen
actually where pole dancing originated. The forms). At LIBRA, students are free to express is made about their clothing. “One time I was reprimanded countless times for wearing
their bodies in an exercise tailored to the
first record of pole dancing dates back to Sheila became interested in pole dancing themselves and dress how they like, as long as wearing my denim skirt and she [Ms. Cer- shorts or jeans that are too ripped. “I find it
7 8
GIRLTALK MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2018
kinda dumb to spend all that time addressing I brought up what you were already feel- students.” Aside from this, dress codes are also
what I’m wearing when I should be in the One of the initial strengths of The She Clark describes the launch of her project community and virtually,” Clark notes. “Then,
ing.” The way a student dresses can lead to accused of perpetuating rape culture.
classroom.” Shift I noticed is the age range covered as the “the light at the end of the tunnel” and I started hearing about different industries,
comments and opinions, “It looks classier I
through one organization. Her book and worth hard work. Clark spent eight months such as women in technology, starting to real-
think if you wear something nice,” says Ms. Dress codes at other schools similar to
With a countless number of occasions audio guides provide a forum for women to creating content and building her business ly advance in male-dominated industries.”
Cervantes. the dress code implemented by staff members
during which this has happened, the con- embolden each other as leaders with their vision. Part of the content creation included
at LIBRA Academy have been targets of move-
troversial topic of body shaming comes up. own stories and advice. She created a super- writing and recording audio guides, creating As an organization centered around
Putting people down for their bodies has ments against sexism and discrimination.
Body shaming is “the action or practice of hero for young girls, where people can fill out webinar presentations, finalizing “The She women inspiring each other, Clark saw wom-
negative effects on their health. According Many campaigns have “criticized the school
humiliating someone by making mocking or a form and she’ll write girls en not only advancing indi-
to cnn.com, “A new study found that over- dress codes for making girls responsible for
critical comments about their body shape or individualized letters from the vidually but coming together.
weight women who believe negative messages preventing harassment from boys – logic that,
size”(oxforddictionaries.com). superhero “Inspiration Icon.” In her book, she writes about
about their bodies are at greater risk for heart they argue, contributes to rape culture where
initiatives such as collabora-
disease and diabetes than those who maintain victims are blamed for dressing provocatively”
When asked about this, Ms. Cervantes In her efforts to foster a tive workspaces and leader-
a more positive body image.” It’s detrimental (the Christian Science Monitor).
said, “You’ve gotta give credit to people who welcoming community for ris- ship conferences occurring at
to not only mental health, but physical health
have a healthy self esteem in their figure. ing females in business, Clark frequencies she’s never seen.
too. Dress codes differentiate based on gender, Staff members have the responsibility to
But you also have to give credit to people says she endeavors to “not Clark proudly reports The
in many ways accommodating males and enforce the uniform policy and dress code,
who know what is appropriate for their body only note amazing women National Women’s Business
ensuring that their learning environment isn’t and it goes beyond just wearing the uniform
type.” In her opinion, it isn’t body shaming but also to highlight millen- Council statistic finding over
disturbed by what the girls are wearing. shirt. “Regardless of what your shape is or
and people will only perceive it that way if nial and young women who 10 million female entrepre-
your figure, short shorts are not appropriate
they were already feeling self conscious. “The are doing amazing things to neurs in the US. “I call it this
This isn’t inclusive of students that don’t and that’s a school policy anywhere you go.
perception is different. be an inspiration for [their] shift, this movement, of all
identify with a male or female gender. Accord- It really is up to the administration to enforce
peers.” these women coming together
ing to Rowena Lindsay from the Christian it,” says Ms. Cervantes. “I think there’s things
If you already feel uncomfortable, and to be that support for other
Science Monitor, “Dress codes are typically appropriate for every occasion.”
you know it's uncomfortable, if somebody Clark’s background women,” Clark expresses.
divided along a gender binary, making it
makes a remark [about what you’re wearing] in wellness and marketing
difficult for trans and gender non-conforming Source: Protur Hotels’ Blog
inevitably lead to the creation The most valuable advice
of The She Shift. Her wellness for young, aspiring entrepre-
SHE SHIFT
profession provided insight neurs and businesswomen,
THE and tools for the everyday
struggles of women trying to
Clark asserts, is finding men-
tors and digesting and noting
succeed, and her marketing every piece of feedback they
with Melissa Clark
background helped her for- share. Building a business
mulate a plan for expanding requires extraordinary time,
the business. “I felt like I was effort, and consistent trial and
being organically pulled into error, so reliable resources
by Charlotte OAKWOOD the direction of working with are assets. “My mentors have
Kramon SECONDARY women in their businesses helped me look at my busi-
SCHOOL
T
and in being entrepreneurs,” ness from the outside in; from
here are many ways people describe progressing percep- Clark tells The GIRLTALK a different perspective,” Clark
tions of gender. Some call them revolutionary, and others Magazine. notes. “It’s really important to
talk of women breaking glass ceilings and boundaries. listen.”
Then there’s Melissa Clark-businesswoman, consultant, Although Clark had a
author, and more-who coined the term “The She Shift” clear vision for The She Shift, Those simple words
to characterize rising female presence in formerly male-dominated materializing the project from scratch was Shift” book, updating her website format and couldn’t be truer: Listening is key. As we
areas of society. Clark created her brand and named her products a laborious process. On top of the creation consistent networking and research. After increasingly experience the internet as a
“The She Shift” in order to motivate businesswomen. process, navigating essential social media in a Clark’s immense effort, she was ready to share bombardment of overwhelming ideas and op-
savvy manner is easier said than done. “I had her vision. “When I was able to launch my tions, taking a step back and listening to our
In a risky move, Melissa Clark left her profession in wellness to everything compiled under one brand [with] book, it was an amazing feeling because I shared experiences of womanhood is crucial
pursue the creation of a multifaceted set of products. “The She Shift” a lot of different pieces, but I realized they all had put in so much effort for a year and a in cultivating shifting dynamics.
is not only a book highlighting the accomplishments of 25 busi- had the same mission-to empower women half,” Clark fondly recalls.
nesswoman and advising entrepreneurs, but is an organization that and girls,” Clark said. “At that point, I had to Luckily, that is exactly what Melissa Clark
includes audiobooks, female superhero “Inspiration Icon” for girls, create a whole new marketing strategy. Throughout her career and research in has done with the resources the online world
a podcast, clothing, consulting, a song, and more. Clark’s story is the male-dominated industries, Clark witnessed has provided her with. She created a multime-
exemplary embodiment of a passionate, experienced female advancing I relied on all of my resources, mentors, clear shifts in attitudes towards employed dia business that allows women to embrace
societal norms to include women as members of the business commu- and connections from over the years, and women and their abilities. “I started seeing each other as a means of achieving success in
nity. made new connections.” this shift taking place starting in my own their fields.
9 10
GIRLTALK MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2018
Meet Bella Glanville. was that it was the very same date she was mother’s career as a midwife.
A
scouted to be a model. And now accompa-
t the age of 13, she started nied with valuable tools for body positivity Similarly, in a modeling audition for
her own foundation, LoveKidz, and self-empowerment, Bella seized this Stella Mccartney, Bella showed up to the audi-
inspiring students all over the opportunity gracefully to enter the modeling tion in sweatpants and no makeup, right after
world to empower themselves industry almost as a “Double 007” agent - on taking a college exam. Though Bella was ini-
with self-love. a mission to promote these tools. tially nervous to be surrounded by glamorous
girls with heels, she decided to present her
At the age of 19, she was one of the In all her modeling jobs, from Topshop, authentic, positive self. Though she respects
youngest finalists for Miss Universe Great Fenty, Vogue, and more, Bella brings the same girls who choose to get ready extensively for
Britain 2018. lessons she’s learned and teaches at LoveKidz these auditions, Bella felt as if her comfort-
with her. For example, Bella is careful to set able outfit and look was most genuinely her.
She is currently an international profes- limits on the types of modeling jobs she’s She almost felt as if she stood out because of
sional model, foundation director, and mentor comfortable with. Although many countries her different look, and later, Bella was thrilled
- a powerhouse with no plans of stopping. are embracing more curvy, body positive, to find out that she had been accepted to
diverse models, other countries with more model for Stella Mccartney’s show.
I had the privilege to interview Bella conservative roots are still calling for more
Glanville about her experiences as a profes- traditional looking models. Bella speaks For the future, Bella hopes to continue
sional model, in Miss Universe Great Britain, about how it’s important that all models of her work in modeling and developing her
and of her work in her Love Kidz foundation. all body types - traditional and diverse- feel Love Kidz foundation, inspiring people to see
welcome in the industry, but also how she is past the myth of perfection in perfectly posi-
Although she started her foundation Love confident to refuse to do a modeling job that tioned, lighted, and photoshopped modeling
Kidz at the age of 13, the inspiration for it asks her to lose too much weight or wear too ads and instead learn to formulate self-love.
came much earlier, when she used lessons of little clothes. She makes sure that whatever She encourages people to keep positive jour-
self-love and confidence to combat her expe- she is modeling is comfortable, authentic, nals, as well as focus on the aspects of them-
riences of being severely bullied in primary and empowering to herself. selves that they enjoy and highlight these
school. Wishing to share this valuable advice qualities through affirmations in a mirror.
with everyone, the Love Kidz foundation was Even in her presentation at Miss Universe
born, and soon at the age of 14, Bella led Great Britain 2018, Bella made sure to do just And with whatever goals Bella sets her
her first workshop on self-love. Since then, that. Moments before she got up on stage, she mind on, she is sure to approach them with
her foundation has conducted many more decided to wash off all her makeup and even an open heart, confidence, and self-love, and
workshops, which are personalized to accom- if she was the only competitor without any through this mentality, hopefully inspires
modate for a wide range of ages and interests, makeup, Bella felt the most comfortable, con- others to do so in their own lives too.
so that younger students can learn about fident, and radiant with her natural look. She
meet confidence through sing-along songs and radiated this confidence on stage as she pre- Her work can be seen at bellaglanville.com.
older students can discover tools that crush sented important facts and activism initiatives
bella
the myth of perfection and practice self-love. for Female Genital Mutilation prevention - an Lovekidzfoundation.com
issue that affects 130 million girls each year,
But what was incredibly special about and something Bella is especially passionate IG: @bellaglanville
Bella’s very first workshop at the age of 14 about preventing especially because of her
glanville
Non-Profit Founder,
International Model,
Finalist for Miss
Universe Great
Britain, & More... by Eunice Park
The Unedited Truth About
Photoshop by
Sophie
OAKWOOD
SECONDARY
Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter. this convenience is that a staggering number Friedberg
All of these sites have made it convenient of people are using social media to show
SCHOOL for teens and adults to convey their lives to their consumers that their lives are seemingly PALISADES HIGH
by Eunice Parl the public simply and effortlessly through a
series of pictures and captions. As time passes
flawless; they force an aesthetic that acts ex-
clusively as a highlight reel. This unrealistic
SCHOOL
OAKWOOD SCHOOL
and technology advances, this way to portray and exaggerated lifestyle sets an unfair expec-
yourself only becomes easier. A by-product of tation for technology consumers- especially
11 12
GIRLTALK MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2018
5
impressionable young girls. your life is indeed “perfect”. But just how high unbroken and undamaged lives.
A tool initially designed for artistic has society’s perfection standards become? So why is that? Why is it that we hide ev- “5”, and the program will give me the answer
REASONS WHY
purposes has been manipulated in order to Is it not considered “perfect” anymore to erything that is true and raw about ourselves “V”.
enhance the lives and features of instagram- have faults? Is it not considered “perfect” any- behind lies and misconception? As science and math become more
GIRLS SHOULD
mers worldwide: Photoshop. With Photoshop more to make mistakes? Is it not considered Why is it that we spend more time worry- complex, and society attempts difficult and
and Photoshopping apps being as simple and “perfect” anymore to be you; simply and un- ing about how our lives are being seen, rather large-scale problems, these kinds of shortcuts
LEARN TO CODE
accessible as they are, it comes as no surprise apologetically? Is it not considered “perfect” than how are lives are being lived? are necessary and extremely helpful.
that people are using it to erase blemishes in anymore to do what you love, instead of what Why is it that we think we must be
their lives. It has become a social norm to edit your followers will love? We get so caught perfect? Nobody’s life is perfect, no matter Coding really isn’t that
your pictures so that you can put your best up worrying about what others will think how much it may seem through a screen, and hard
and most accomplished self out for display, about our lives, that we allow our lives to be as many times as it is said, it isn’t absorbed by Amrita Bhasin Girls today have so many more resources
however this unhealthy obsession has taken controlled and censored by our followers. We enough: you only get one life; one life to MENLO PARK, CALIFORNIA to learn coding than ever before. Nationwide
hold of millions of people on the internet. shove our insecurities behind a color-theme live authentically, truly, and without fear of organizations like Girls Who Code, Black
Social media has become a way to not only and a re-touched bikini photo. We do any- imperfection. The unedited you is the most Girls Code and Built by Girls aim to get girls
express yourself, but to show the world that thing we can to convince the masses of our perfect you there is. It’s 2018, and that means that we are into technology. While only 1 in 10 schools
living in the age of self-driving cars, home teaches computer science, you can join one of
robots, AirPods, and drones. For us girls, we these organizations outside organizations and
are the face of the next generation. We are the learn it on your own.
face of the next Facebook, Yahoo or Google.
anonymous.
As a teenager from Silicon Valley, the home You can also learn to code through
of the world’s largest tech corporations and YouTube, a course on Udemy or even a How
startups, I know 5 languages: Java, JavaS- to Book. There are plenty of places you can
cript, HTML, Ruby and Swift, and I use these It is no secret that there is an increasing explore.
languages in different ways. rise in tech companies and computer classes
in schools nationwide. And lucky for us, Many courses start with super basic and
just a little while ago, brett kavanaugh was confirmed for the supreme court. as someone who Check out these 5 reasons for why you more and more people are giving attention fun things like animation, so there is no need
is an ally to survivors like dr. ford, and as someone who is a survivor myself, this is a huge step should learn to code! and putting resources towards girls learning to leap into the difficult stuff first! With a
back for our country and the world. he went through because the fbi investigation didn’t inter- computer programming and coding. self-paced course, you can also work as slowly
view him or dr. ford, and concluded with a simple statement of “not enough evidence” and now Coding can be used in every field Because of the large gender gap and or as fast as you are interested in or have
You may think that coding can’t possibly need for gender diversity, there is a lot of time for. Coding really is like learning a new
he is a supreme court justice. this is ten steps backwards for America. rape culture is becoming a be used in an artistic field or a career in pressure on businesses and companies to hire language, so choose something that you’re
huge issue. for example, my case was also closed because there “wasn’t enough evidence”, even medicine, but think again. What many people and search for girls. Programming/coding is passionate about. If you want to learn to write
though the evidence was overwhelming to me. we are so quick to believe a man if he says a girl don’t realize is that code is used in basically one of the fastest growing jobs, and currently, apps, choose Swift. If you are a first-time
is a whore, or a bitch, or a slut, etc. yet, when a woman says anything about a man, from some- everything these days, and more and more there are more jobs that require coding than learner, choose Python or JavaScript.
thing as small as “he’s rude” to something as big as “he raped me”, they’re usually met with businesses are starting to rely on code. Coding people to fill them. Businesses want you!
“you’re just being too sensitive,” or “where’s your proof”. this is the sad truth. after my assault,
is used in fields as different as music, me- Coding is awesome
chanical engineering, and archeology. Even Coding is the language of One thing coding teaches you is to work
society taught me that he did nothing wrong. that i should’ve said no louder and despite the fact if you don’t need to learn to code for your the future hard and not give up. Once I get started on
that i didn’t say yes, i didn’t say no either, and so it isn’t rape. so i kept quiet. i now have the cour- job, it is still very beneficial in everyday life. In the future, learning to code will be a problem, I work to finish it. Sometimes, I
age to speak out it freely, but still when i did i was met with skepticism and criticism. my case For example, I used HTML to code my own considered comparable to learning to read get frustrated and impatient, but seeing the
was dropped. this is why everyone MUST speak out. our voices MUST be heard. they can ignore website where I have art portfolios and writ- or write. With so many fields and business- end result makes all my hard work pay off.
ing samples for job/college applications. In es turning to computer programming and Designing an app is super fun because I can
a whisper, but they can’t ignore a battle cry. and still, just talking about won’t change anything. addition, you can use code to animate videos software/hardware design, knowing how to brainstorm any new idea I want and take any
we have to act. together, words and actions can make an incredible difference. everybody needs or make graphic designs. The opportunities code will become necessary in everyday life possible angle on it.
to send postcards, everybody needs to speak out, everybody needs to march, it’s time that we as are truly endless! and beyond.
a community started to stand up for what we believe in. during this time we all need to be there Coding, like learning anything new,
for eachother. if anybody needs to talk or needs help there are an infinite number of resources. Businesses want girls The reason why is because coding allows teaches you to stick with and pursue some-
Unfortunately, the world of technology you to do something 100 times faster than thing. But more than that, it allows you to
believe survivors. no means no means no means no, silence means no, “i don’t know” means is currently dominated by men. According normal computation. For example, I wrote think about something in a new way and
no. anything less than a yes, means no. don’t be part of the problem, be part of the solution. love to the New York Times, women only make a program a few months ago that converts innovate.
yourself and others. change the world. up 14% of computer science graduates, and normal numbers to roman numerals. Every
only 0.4% of girls enter college planning to time I want to do this I can merely just count You can enter programming competi-
take computer science. Computer science and the numbers using the bases. Or, I can write tions, hackathons, science fairs, app design
programming jobs also have a significantly a program in a few lines that does this in half contests and so much more. And… you can
higher average salary than many jobs in a second. Now, I can just type in the number use code to do it!
America.
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GIRLTALK MAGAZINE
Why are We Still Promoting
the Weight Loss Fantasy?
by Alyse Rovner
OAKWOOD SECONDARY SCHOOL
Why has society and media put so much ately knew I would never support this show ner” standard of beauty. Through the use of
time and energy into the weight loss fantasy and like many others wanted to petition to celebrity influencer’s endorsing products like
film? And why does that fantasy exist? stop its release. The premise of the show Flat Tummy Tea, Weight Watchers, and waist
involves around Debby Ryan (Patty) who trainers, it is clear that people are capitalizing
This fantasy of losing weight to become once “fat” and “ugly,” loses weight to become on women's’ insecurities regarding weight.
beautiful and more desirable is in part due to “beautiful” and “hot.” The trailer makes it
the societal beauty standards that exist today. clear that Patty lost weight because of jaw For example, the Kardashian family
Although there is a newer body positivity and surgery and that her new body was her form represents a widely accepted societal defini-
self love movement, the beauty standards of revenge. tion of beauty and wealth for this generation,
that are messaged to society still promote through portraying the fantasy of a perfect
being skinny, white, and blonde. The constant Not only does the show associate fat with life. In making others envy their lifestyle and
mixed messaging between loving oneself and being ugly, but the show also creates a fantasy beauty, they are effectively able to capitalize
desiring a skinnier physique is all around us. of the weightloss story: that losing weight was on their followers' insecurities, making them
easy because she had no choice. The use of believe weight loss will make them happier
How do we learn to love ourselves with skinny actress, Debby Ryan, within the series, and more desirable. The trust and leadership
all of society’s mixed messaging? adds another problematic level to the series social media affords the Kardashians allows
because she is making fun of fatness, with no them to effectively promote the preference of
I have no real answer to this question, personal experience/knowledge of the “self- a flat stomach and skinniness, thereby perpet-
because self-love is a journey that is individu- doubt” and “insecurities” it inflicts into its uating the weightloss fantasy.
al, and there is no one way to be confident in audience of teenagers. Although the show has
yourself. I definitely think this journey of self been released and renewed for another sea- I wish I could say I have no clue why we
discovery can be aided if societal standards son, I hope that we can change the weightloss are still promoting the weightloss fantasy, but
of beauty are expanded to include all people. revenge body and instead make confidence it is clear. The societal standards of beauty for
That’s why I was particularly troubled when and love for oneself the ultimate revenge. our generation still idolize skinniness, and
an advertisement for Insatiable (Netflix’s companies (television/food/influencers) are
newest TV series) appeared on my phone How is this weight loss ideal perpetuated able to capitalize on this. As long as society
screen. My immediate reaction was anger. beyond television? continues to “feed” into this fantasy, it will
Why in 2018 were we still promoting weight still exist. Together, we must learn to love our-
loss to become beautiful? Why were they Social media and youtube add to this selves and resist societal temptations to look a
putting Debby Ryan in a fat suit? Why were weightloss fantasy, as it is no longer sole- specific way, because change starts with you.
they trying to make “satire” of a weight loss ly targeted to consumers on Netflix, but
fantasy, but instead “feeding” into it? instead multitudes of people with access to In the words of RuPaul: “If you don't
the internet. The advertisements that pop up love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love
Based on Insatiable’s trailer, I immedi- on our screens further promote this “skin- somebody else?”
15
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