I started to think of activities that are thought to be "boy activities" and "girl activities." We learn how to categorize activities as children and then these ideas stick with us all throughout our lives.
What was interesting to think about was how some activities and things can overlap within genders, and how some overlapping of activities is accepted, while others are not. If there is a girl that is really into sports and has an interesting fashion style that is perhaps more masculine, this girl could be considered really cool and hip even. However, if there is a boy that is very passionate in activities that are typically feminine activities, he is not usually considered to be that cool.
I started to think about this because this semester, my straight guy friend decided to take ballet classes. I thought that was great - if he was interested in ballet, he should absolutely pursue that interest and take the class. My other girl friends also thought that was really cool and thought it would be good for him. However, he didn't tell him roommate that he was taking the class. Yet, when his roommate found out, despite the initial joking around about it, he also told him he should go for it if he was interested in it. He thought it was cool too. Still, the fact that he initially kept it a secret makes me wonder why these categories must exist.
I am really so glad that your friend decides to dance ballet and think that is so cool! Tori, as I am having the same thought as you, I have always been curious about why should only male do sports and only female dance? I support both genders to be appreciated on their achievement no matter how that kind of activity is "genderized."
ReplyDeleteBesides, here are some funny information about guys dancing. Since my sister is a dancer, I observed that male dancers, including ballerinos, are usually demanded and "extremely attractive" to other female dancers because they are considered to be "rare."