The “Feminist Frequency” comes to High Point University

By: Emily Farris

            High Point University hosted speaker Anita Sarkeesian, creator of the “Feminist Frequency,” on April 3^rd as a part of the Communications Week sponsored by the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication. Sarkeesian spoke to students about the various stigmas pictured in today’s pop culture narratives.

            The “Feminist Frequency” is a web series that explores a variety of representations of women in video games. Sarkeesian explained the idea of damsels in distress, women in refrigerators, and smurfettes to a college-aged audience in an way that had the attendees laughing.

Emily Krol, a freshman Game and Interactive Media Design Major at High Point University, enjoyed Sarkeesian’s take on feminism in the media.

“Not only did she convince the audience to see her point of view with her extensive amount of examples that everyone could relate to, but her arguments were unique, relevant, and well-supported,” says Krol.

However, not everyone was able to relate to Sarkeesian throughout her speech.

Bitsy Conklin, a sophomore Strategic Communications Major, spoke against the action Sarkeesian has chosen to undertake.

 “I don't really agree with the message. I do think woman are objectified, but I also think that in today's culture both men and women are mistreated based on their sexuality. If you are offended by it, you should choose to ignore it,” Conklin states.

            Because Sarkeesian cannot ignore it, she has been attacked via social media regarding her creation, the “Feminist Frequency.” Threats involving rape and illness come in everyday, and take a toll on Sarkeesian’s faith in her message.

            Nonetheless, Sarkeesian knows that she is working for a bigger purpose; therefore, she continues to preach her message of equality. “There is already a pre-existing hatred for feminism that is promoted and encouraged by video games. I realize this, and that is why I continue to do this,” says Sarkeesian.