I found Carolyn Luby’s article addressing UConn’s mascot makeover to be astute and compelling. In her article, Luby calls to attention that UConn reinventing their Huskie’s look would not fix the problems facing the athletic department. For example, the charges against Lyle McCombs, UCONN running back, for second degree breach of peace against his girlfriend outside a residence and Enosch Wolf, UCONN basketball player, committing third degree burglary and assaulting a young woman. These dilemmas pose a serious threat to female students at the University of Connecticut. However, the university has done little to find a solution for these problems. Rather they chose to focus on giving their mascot a more aggressive and confident appearance. Luby is discontented with their response and suggests that the university address the problem by supporting and raising awareness of violence against women, as well as by helping athletes seek assistance on issues of violence and anger management.

As a current feminist topic, violence against women and hypermasculinity on college campuses is still extremely relevant. It is also a topic that most instituions would like to sweep under the rug. In the case of Erica Kinsman, a female student at Florida State University, after being raped by FSU quarterback, Jameis Winston, the university offered Erica $950,000 to settle the lawsuit. The university cared more about the future and reputation of the football star than the wellbeing of their female students. Unfortunately, this isn’t the only case. Universities would rather keep prestigious reputations intact than see justice be served for those sexually assaulted during their time at a university.

Luby expressing affiliation with UConn’s President, Susan Herbst, created a feeling of sisterhood. Luby expresses here respect towards Herbst for being the first woman president of UCONN, while also expressing her displeasure with how Herbst is handling the issues involving young women on campus. It’s important within the sisterhood to critique other women when their actions may be negatively affecting the lives of others. Luby is able to provide constructive criticism about Herbst’s methods without attacking and demeaning her.

I think online activism and blogging will be integral to the coming third-wave feminist movement. Technology and social media have provided us with wonderful outlets for distributing information and raising awareness. The feminist movement should use this to its advantage. However, this does not mean cyber outreach should replace rallies, marches, and other real-world activism opportunities. It’s important that the feminist community remain at work out in the field as well.