Edition 50: Social Impacts of the Pandemic on Women
Jun 4, 2020
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In this podcast, Thistle interviews Vaishnavi Sundar, a feminist filmmaker from India, discussing how the pandemic has impacted women in her country. Diane Fischer, a massage therapist, shares her experiences as a non-essential worker in Ohio. Sekhmet SheOwl discusses the economic and social impacts of the pandemic on women, emphasizing solidarity and hope for the feminist community. The podcast also addresses the dire situation of trafficked women and explores the broader social implications of COVID-19 on women.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the economic vulnerability of women, especially those in lower-paying jobs, and the need for a higher minimum wage and universal healthcare.
Living alone during the pandemic has emphasized the importance of in-person connections and support networks for women's mental and emotional well-being.
Deep dives
Impact of the pandemic on working women
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant economic impact on women, particularly those in lower-paying jobs or in sectors that have shut down. Many women have been laid off or furloughed, leading to financial insecurity and uncertainty. The pandemic has also exposed the failure of the capitalist system to provide economic security for working women. Essential workers, who are largely women, have been forced to risk their health without receiving adequate pay or recognition. The pandemic has highlighted the need for a higher minimum wage and universal healthcare. Domestic violence has also surged during the quarantine period, trapping women with abusive partners. The pandemic has revealed the importance of community and support networks for women's well-being.
Isolation and mental health impact on women living alone
Women living alone during the pandemic have faced increased isolation and the psychological challenges that come with it. The lack of human interaction, positive touch, and activities have taken a toll on their mental and emotional well-being. The experience has emphasized the importance of community and friendship, showing that online connections are insufficient. Living alone has made these women realize the significance of in-person connections, and the need for support and connection with other women for mental and emotional resilience.
Economic vulnerability and dependence during quarantine
The lockdown measures have left many women financially vulnerable and dependent on their male partners, exacerbating existing power imbalances and making it harder for women to leave abusive relationships. The pandemic has highlighted how necessary financial independence is for women's safety and well-being. It has also exposed the inadequacy of the capitalist system to provide economic security for working-class women. The economic fallout from the pandemic may lead to long-lasting financial consequences for many women, pushing them further into poverty and insecurity.
Challenges faced by essential workers during the pandemic
Essential workers, including many women, have faced increased risks and challenges during the pandemic. These workers often have low wages and lack adequate protection, such as personal protective equipment. They are more likely to be exposed to COVID-19 due to their frontline positions. Despite their essential roles, these workers are often undervalued and disrespected, further highlighting the inequalities in society. The pandemic has shed light on the need for fair treatment, better pay, and improved working conditions for essential workers, particularly women.
Welcome to WLRN's 50th edition podcast! First up, hear WLRN's April Neault greet listeners from her natural setting in Canada, then hear the world news written and delivered by Dana Vitalosova followed by the song Far Away by Eivor.
Next, stay tuned for excerpts from an interview Thistle did with Vaishnavi Sundar, feminist film maker and social analyst from India before enjoying the song Heal Me by Melissa Ethridge.
After that, hear an interview with Diane Fischer, MichFest and Ohio Lesbian Festival sister who spoke with Thistle about her practice of massage therapy and how the pandemic has impacted her business and the lives of her colleagues and womyn's community in Ohio.
Finally, don't miss Sekhmet SheOwl's commentary on how the pandemic is impacting women economically and socially during this time, and her message of solidarity and hope for women to begin to come out of isolation with a greater appreciation for our feminist community and how much we need to see each other in person.
At the very end of the show, Sekhmet delivers WLRN's message of solidarity and support for the families and friends who have lost loved ones to police brutality in the last few weeks. We stand in support of justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmad Arbory. #SayHerName #BlackLivesMatter
Thank you for staying tuned to feminist community powered radio. Drop us a line at wlrnewscontact@gmail.com. Make a donation to support this important work we do by visiting our wordpress site and clicking on the donate button. https://wlrnmedia.wordpress.com/
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