One of the most influential ideas that I learned from my research for the Voices project was the idea that most religious scriptures used to promote conservative values actually preach the equality of men and women. Both the Quran and the Bible have strong, important female characters. Women are portrayed as smart, kind, and important. The second influential idea that I learned from my research is related: texts can easily be distorted by outspoken people. Patriarchal leaders in many religions have used their religious texts to promote a patriarchal society and restrict the voice of women. It is easy for people to accept these arguments as truth, because leaders are able to find isolated portions of the text, which seem to support their arguments when pulled out of context. However, when one reads the entire work, a different story arises.
I hope that these takeaways from my project will push people to consider their sources and get all the information before developing an opinion. People are easily manipulated when they are uneducated. It takes conscious effort to avoid manipulation and stereotypes. I also hope that people will reconsider the stereotypes that they believe about certain types of people. Stereotypes are oversimplified, hurtful, and frequently untrue. These false beliefs about certain groups of people can have real consequences, in spheres from the job market to personal safety.
I entered NNHS with a very skewed, simplified view of how the world worked. Through my time, I have been exposed to many different people and perspectives, and I think that I am a much more rounded and knowledgeable person. Personally, NNHS gave me time and space to figure myself out. Through classes, clubs, and friends I was able to figure out my interests and goals for the future.
To future NNHS seniors, I would say that it’s never too late to try something. If there’s a club that really interests you, but you think that it’s too late to join, I think you should try it. I psyched myself out with that thought several times during my time here, and there are groups that I regret never trying out. Let yourself enjoy high school, allow yourself to do things solely because they are fun. Also, don’t procrastinate on the important things. You honestly can’t start your college applications too early.
Voices Project Link: https://semccarthy.wixsite.com/women-and-religion