Sara Ahmed, a feminist writer and independent scholar known for her impactful work in feminist, queer, and race studies, discusses her latest book, The Feminist Killjoy Handbook. The conversation reveals the power of the feminist killjoy in fostering community and resistance against oppressive norms. Sara shares personal stories about embracing identity beyond academia, the emotional complexities of diversity work, and the need for genuine activism over superficial engagement. The discussion also highlights the significance of citations as acts of love in acknowledging marginalized voices.
The feminist killjoy symbolizes resistance within academic institutions, challenging complacency and pushing for meaningful diversity efforts and critiques.
Sara Ahmed emphasizes the power of personal narratives in fostering solidarity and understanding among feminists, making activism more relatable and actionable.
Building a supportive community among feminist killjoys is vital for combating isolation and exhaustion in activism, reinforcing collective strength in the fight for justice.
Deep dives
The Role of the Feminist Killjoy
The concept of the feminist killjoy is central to understanding the challenges faced by women, particularly women of color, within academic institutions. This figure embodies the resistance to complacency and encourages individuals to challenge the status quo, raising uncomfortable truths about diversity efforts and institutional support. By reframing the narrative around the killjoy, the discussion reveals how these individuals often serve as catalysts for change within oppressive systems, even when their voices may be marginalized or ignored. The feminist killjoy thus becomes a powerful symbol of activism and critique, affirming the importance of speaking out against inequities.
Connection to Personal Narratives
The podcast emphasizes the personal narratives woven throughout Sara Ahmed's work, highlighting the importance of individual experiences in forming a collective understanding of oppression. The interplay of personal stories and broader cultural critiques fosters a sense of solidarity among listeners, allowing them to see themselves reflected in the struggles depicted. This connection enriches the discourse around feminism and activism, making it more relatable and actionable for those who may feel isolated in their experiences. By sharing her journey and the influences of her mentors, Ahmed illuminates the path that has shaped her perspectives on feminism and resistance.
The Importance of Community and Companionship
Building a sense of community among feminist killjoys is crucial for sustaining the fight against institutional injustices. The podcast underscores that the shared experiences and collective struggles can help alleviate feelings of exhaustion and isolation that often accompany activism. By actively engaging in conversations and supporting one another, individuals can amplify their voices and create a more inclusive environment. This camaraderie serves as a reminder that the work of a killjoy is not undertaken alone but as part of a broader movement towards equality and justice.
Navigating Institutional Challenges
The discussion highlights the complex dynamics of navigating academia while confronting institutional cruelties and injustices. There is a recognition of the paradoxes inherent in pursuing reform within structures that often resist change, leading to exhaustion among activists. Yet, rather than succumbing to despair, Ahmed encourages a strategy of conscious withdrawal and selective engagement as a means of preserving energy for the most impactful interventions. This thoughtful approach empowers individuals to decide how and when to act, reinforcing the notion that sometimes saying no can be a powerful political statement.
Legacy and Citational Generosity
The importance of honoring the legacy of Black, Indigenous, and women of color feminists is a significant theme in the podcast. By acknowledging the foundational work and sacrifices of these individuals, the conversation emphasizes the vital role of citation as an act of recognition and resistance. The act of citing influential figures in feminist discourse not only acknowledges their contributions but also fosters a continuous dialogue that connects current struggles to historical narratives. This citational practice becomes a form of love letter to those who have paved the way for contemporary understanding of feminism, reinforcing the interdependent nature of activism across time.
Sara Ahmed, author, scholar, and one of our feminist heroes joins us to talk about her new book, The Feminist Killjoy Handbook!
Sara's work both as a scholar in the academy working on queer phenomenology, on post coloniality, and on emotions, as well as her work after she left the academy has been an inspiration. Her work, Living a Feminist Life, her work on Complaint, and her bold and powerful blog, Feminist Killjoys, taught me so much about how institutions functioned and helped me understand my experiences in the academy.
In this conversation, Sara and I talk about the book, but also talk about the aunties in her life and many other things.
Join us in the Academic Aunties Bookclub!
In December, we're going to gather some feminist killjoy aunties to talk about the book! So after listening to this episode, go out and buy a copy. And then stay tuned in December when we're going to have our very first Academic Aunties Book Club! If you'd like to contribute to the conversation, email us your thoughts or even a voice memo to podcast@academicaunties.com.
