Growing up under a microscope of a single-parent household in the inner city was like living in a constant state of duality. On one hand, there was the pulsating rhythm of New York City, with its vibrant streets teeming with life and endless possibilities. On the other, there was the ever-present shadow of financial instability and the hard reality of our circumstances. My mother, a strong and unwavering figure deeply rooted in her homeland of Senegal, often questioned my desire to explore beyond the familiar. "What's out there that's not here?" she would ask, her tone a mix of concern and curiosity. My response was always the same: "I just want to see more." Our conversations typically ended in a stalemate, with me yearning for exploration and my mother emphasizing the safety and comfort of our known surroundings. Life in the city presented myriad challenges. Financial instability loomed large, with my mother working tirelessly to provide for us. Our neighborhood, while vibrant and full of life, was often marked by crime and economic hardship. Trust was rare; my father's betrayal had permanently scarred my ability to trust others. Yet, these challenges forged my resilience and determination. I learned early on that education was my ticket to a better future, a belief my mother instilled in me with unwavering conviction. Despite the obstacles, my mother's strength and dedication were my guiding lights. Her sacrifices, from working multiple jobs to ensuring I had access to educational opportunities, were not lost on me. I knew that excelling academically was not just a personal goal but a way to honor her relentless efforts. The turning point in our journey came when I was accepted into a transformative pre-college program at Brown University. Immersing myself in Brown's vibrant academic community, surrounded by students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, I realized the profound impact of different perspectives on understanding the world. In a classroom discussion dissecting Ocean Vuong's poetry, I initially felt confident in my interpretation, only to be enlightened by the varied viewpoints of my classmates. Through their lenses, I discovered new layers of meaning within the text, expanding my understanding beyond my own experiences. This newfound appreciation for diverse perspectives became the cornerstone of my academic journey at Brown. With each poem, each discussion, I delved deeper into the complexities of human experiences, learning to empathize with viewpoints vastly different from my own. It was a humbling realization that truth and understanding are multifaceted, shaped by individual perspectives and lived experiences. But perhaps the most profound revelation came during my final project, where I curated a collection of poems inspired by the perspectives of my classmates. In weaving together voices from different backgrounds, I found unity in diversity, celebrating the richness of human expression. As I shared my work with my mother, I saw her eyes light up with pride and understanding. In that moment, I knew that my journey had not only broadened my own horizons but had also bridged the gap between us. Reflecting on my upbringing in a single-parent household, I now understand the sacrifices my mother made to provide me with opportunities for growth and exploration. Her unwavering love and protective instincts were not rooted in control but in a deep-seated desire for my well-being and success. While New York City will always hold a special place in my heart, my experiences at Brown have ignited a thirst for knowledge and understanding that transcends geographical boundaries. As I prepare to enter Boston University this fall, the financial strain still weighs heavily on my mind. Although I am fortunate to have my full financial need met, I worry about the additional expenses that come with transitioning from a teenager to an independent adult. Access to this scholarship would ease this burden, allowing me to continue moving forward, true to my family's motto, without the constant worry about financial stability. Armed with an open mind and a compassionate heart, I am committed to connecting with the wider world, embracing new ideas, and forging meaningful connections that defy the limitations of place and perspective. Thank you so much for your time, I hope I’ve made an impact on your mindset!

If there's one change I could make to the world, it would be to foster a global culture of empathy and understanding. This change is paramount because it lays the foundation for addressing a myriad of social, economic, and environmental challenges facing our planet today. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It's about stepping into someone else's shoes, seeing the world from their perspective, and responding with compassion and kindness. In a world where empathy reigns supreme, divisions based on race, religion, nationality, or socioeconomic status would diminish, replaced by a sense of interconnectedness and mutual respect. Imagine a world where instead of resorting to conflict and violence, nations resolved their differences through dialogue and diplomacy. A world where instead of turning a blind eye to the suffering of others, individuals and communities came together to offer support and assistance. A world where instead of perpetuating stereotypes and prejudices, people sought to educate themselves about the experiences and struggles of those different from themselves. This change is particularly crucial in light of the growing polarization and division we see in societies around the world. From political rifts to social injustice, the lack of empathy lies at the root of many of our most pressing issues. By fostering a culture of empathy, we can bridge these divides and work towards solutions that benefit everyone. But fostering empathy isn't just about understanding the struggles of others—it's also about recognizing our own privilege and using it to uplift those who may be less fortunate. It's about acknowledging the systemic injustices that perpetuate inequality and working to dismantle them. It's about advocating for policies and practices that promote equity and justice for all. Moreover, empathy extends beyond human interactions to encompass our relationship with the planet itself. In an age of climate change and environmental degradation, empathy for the natural world is more important than ever. It's about recognizing that we are all interconnected and that the health of the planet is intricately linked to our own well-being. By cultivating empathy for the Earth and all its inhabitants, we can inspire action to protect and preserve our precious ecosystems for future generations. In my own life, I strive to embody the values of empathy and understanding in everything I do. Whether through my academic pursuits, community involvement, or personal relationships, I seek to listen actively, empathize deeply, and advocate passionately for positive change. From supporting marginalized communities to promoting environmental sustainability, I believe that empathy is the key to unlocking a brighter future for us all. Ultimately, fostering a global culture of empathy and understanding is not just a lofty ideal—it's a necessary step towards building a more just, compassionate, and sustainable world for generations to come. And while achieving this change may seem daunting, I am optimistic that with dedication, perseverance, and a collective commitment to empathy, we can make it a reality.

As a high school student, I was constantly driven by a desire to explore beyond the confines of familiarity. My mother's repeated question, "What's out there that's not here?" echoed in my mind, urging me to seek new experiences and perspectives. This innate curiosity led me to pursue opportunities like the Summer@Brown Pre-College program, where I immersed myself in a diverse community of global peers and delved into the study of poetry. Throughout my academic journey, I have come to understand the transformative power of education and the importance of embracing diverse viewpoints. My experiences at Brown taught me to approach learning with an open mind, recognizing the richness that comes from engaging with differing interpretations and ideas. This mindset not only deepened my understanding of poetry but also broadened my perspective on the world around me. Beyond academics, I have also learned valuable lessons about empathy and understanding. Reflecting on my relationship with my mother, I realized that her concerns about my choices were rooted in love and a desire for my well-being. This insight has shaped my approach to interpersonal relationships, driving me to listen actively and empathize with others' perspectives. What empowerment means to me is the ability to recognize and harness one's own potential to effect positive change. It's about having the courage and confidence to pursue one's dreams and aspirations, despite obstacles or societal expectations. Empowerment is not just about individual achievement but also about lifting others up and creating opportunities for those who may face barriers to success. In my own life, empowerment has been a guiding principle that has fueled my academic pursuits and community involvement. It's about recognizing that I have the agency and ability to make a difference in the world, whether through education, advocacy, or fostering dialogue and understanding. Looking ahead, I am committed to leveraging my education and experiences to make a positive impact on the world. One avenue through which I plan to do this is by fostering dialogue and understanding across diverse communities. I believe that by creating spaces for individuals to share their stories and perspectives, we can break down barriers and build bridges of empathy and mutual respect. Furthermore, I am passionate about advocating for access to quality education, particularly for marginalized communities. I believe that education is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for empowerment. Through initiatives aimed at expanding educational opportunities and resources, I hope to contribute to creating a more equitable and just society. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my goals. As a recipient, I would have the financial support needed to continue pursuing my education and engaging in impactful projects and initiatives. Additionally, as someone very passionate about journalism, my mind is always surrounded with finding out the true questions to the facades in which the world tries to conceal from me. My journey thus far has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and growth. I am committed to using my education and experiences to drive positive change in the world, whether through fostering dialogue and empathy or advocating for educational equity. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can continue on my undernerving path of discovery and give a pedestal to the unseen and unheard in the world.

As a high school student, I've been shaped by various experiences and challenges, including those of my family and community. One such experience that deeply impacted me involved my cousin Amina, who hails from Senegal. During a conversation on our WhatsApp call, I overheard my aunt urging Amina to prioritize finding a husband, despite her young age. Witnessing Amina's discomfort, I swiftly changed the subject, asking her about her summer activities. While Amina shared her mundane tasks of helping on the farm and cooking, I excitedly recounted my enriching experience studying poetry on a college campus. However, Amina's response struck a chord within me. With a hint of longing in her voice, she expressed her desire to pursue further education in neuroscience, a dream hindered by societal expectations. Determined to support her, I began sending her educational articles, encouraging her to expand her knowledge. Over time, Amina's enthusiasm for learning grew evident as she eagerly shared insights gleaned from the articles. Her passion reignited my commitment to promoting educational opportunities, especially for marginalized individuals like Amina. Motivated by Amina's experience, I took action within my community. As a member of the Beauty & Brains and Mental Health Club, I recognized the need to address the pervasive issue of gender inequality and lack of autonomy faced by young women like Amina. With this in mind, I spearheaded the creation of a presentation discussing these challenges in various societies worldwide. The response from club members was overwhelming. Many resonated deeply with the content, sharing personal stories of feeling burdened by societal expectations. Ashley, a sophomore, expressed her relief at realizing she wasn't alone in facing such pressures. Moved by the impact of our presentation, I was inspired to further my efforts in advocating for gender equality and educational empowerment. Through initiatives like organizing educational workshops and mentorship programs, I strive to provide support and resources to individuals like Amina, enabling them to pursue their dreams despite societal barriers. Reflecting on this experience, I recognize the power of community-driven action in effecting positive change. By leveraging our collective voices and resources, we can challenge societal norms and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all. In addition to this impactful experience, I have also contributed to my community through various acts of service. One notable instance occurred during my involvement in a local food drive at the New York Common Pantry, where I volunteered my time to collect donations and distribute meals to families in need. Witnessing the gratitude and relief on the faces of those we served reinforced my belief in the importance of giving back to the community and supporting those facing adversity. Moreover, as I aspire to become a journalist, I see this commitment to community service and advocacy as integral to my professional goals. Through my writing, I aim to amplify the voices of marginalized individuals, shed light on pressing social issues, and inspire meaningful change. By giving a platform to those whose stories are often unheard, I hope to make a difference in our world and contribute to building a more just and compassionate society.

As a high school student, I've been shaped by various experiences and challenges, including those of my family and community. One such experience that deeply impacted me involved my cousin Amina, who hails from Senegal. During a conversation on our WhatsApp call, I overheard my aunt urging Amina to prioritize finding a husband, despite her young age. Witnessing Amina's discomfort, I swiftly changed the subject, asking her about her summer activities. While Amina shared her mundane tasks of helping on the farm and cooking, I excitedly recounted my enriching experience studying poetry on a college campus. However, Amina's response struck a chord within me. With a hint of longing in her voice, she expressed her desire to pursue further education in neuroscience, a dream hindered by societal expectations. Determined to support her, I began sending her educational articles, encouraging her to expand her knowledge. Over time, Amina's enthusiasm for learning grew evident as she eagerly shared insights gleaned from the articles. Her passion reignited my commitment to promoting educational opportunities, especially for marginalized individuals like Amina. Motivated by Amina's experience, I took action within my community. As a member of the Beauty & Brains and Mental Health Club, I recognized the need to address the pervasive issue of gender inequality and lack of autonomy faced by young women like Amina. With this in mind, I spearheaded the creation of a presentation discussing these challenges in various societies worldwide. The response from club members was overwhelming. Many resonated deeply with the content, sharing personal stories of feeling burdened by societal expectations. Ashley, a sophomore, expressed her relief at realizing she wasn't alone in facing such pressures. Moved by the impact of our presentation, I was inspired to further my efforts in advocating for gender equality and educational empowerment. Through initiatives like organizing educational workshops and mentorship programs, I strive to provide support and resources to individuals like Amina, enabling them to pursue their dreams despite societal barriers. Reflecting on this experience, I recognize the power of community-driven action in effecting positive change. By leveraging our collective voices and resources, we can challenge societal norms and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all. In addition to this impactful experience, I have also contributed to my community through various acts of service. One notable instance occurred during my involvement in a local food drive at the New York Common Pantry, where I volunteered my time to collect donations and distribute meals to families in need. Witnessing the gratitude and relief on the faces of those we served reinforced my belief in the importance of giving back to the community and supporting those facing adversity. Overall, my commitment to making a positive impact on my community through servitude is deeply rooted in my experiences, values, and aspirations. Whether it's advocating for gender equality, promoting educational opportunities, or supporting those in need, I am dedicated to using my voice and actions to create meaningful change and uplift those around me especially when it comes to giving them their own platform to say their truth and or story.

Growing up in a single-parent household with my mother was a journey of self-discovery, both personally and in understanding the world around me. My mother, deeply rooted in her homeland of Senegal, often questioned my desire to explore beyond the familiar streets of New York City. "What's out there that's not here?" she would ask, her tone a mix of concern and curiosity. Each time, I responded with the same longing: "I just want to see more." Our conversations typically ended in a stalemate, with me yearning for exploration and my mother emphasizing the safety and comfort of our known surroundings. However, it wasn't until I embarked on a transformative journey to a pre-college program at Brown University that our perspectives began to shift. As I immersed myself in Brown's vibrant academic community, surrounded by students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, I realized the profound impact of different perspectives on understanding the world. In a classroom discussion dissecting Ocean Vuong's poetry, I initially felt confident in my interpretation, only to be enlightened by the varied viewpoints of my classmates. Through their lenses, I discovered new layers of meaning within the text, expanding my understanding beyond my own experiences. This newfound appreciation for diverse perspectives became the cornerstone of my academic journey at Brown. With each poem, each discussion, I delved deeper into the complexities of human experiences, learning to empathize with viewpoints vastly different from my own. It was a humbling realization that truth and understanding are multifaceted, shaped by individual perspectives and lived experiences. But perhaps the most profound revelation came during my final project, where I curated a collection of poems inspired by the perspectives of my classmates. In weaving together voices from different backgrounds, I found unity in diversity, celebrating the richness of human expression. As I shared my work with my mother, I saw her eyes light up with pride and understanding. In that moment, I knew that my journey had not only broadened my own horizons but had also bridged the gap between us. Reflecting on my upbringing in a single-parent household, I now understand the sacrifices my mother made to provide me with opportunities for growth and exploration. Her unwavering love and protective instincts were not rooted in control but in a deep-seated desire for my well-being and success. While New York City will always hold a special place in my heart, my experiences at Brown have ignited a thirst for knowledge and understanding that transcends geographical boundaries. As I continue to venture beyond the familiar, I carry with me the lessons learned from my upbringing and my time at Brown. Armed with an open mind and a compassionate heart, I am committed to connecting with the wider world, embracing new ideas, and forging meaningful connections that defy the limitations of place and perspective.

As a high school student, I've been shaped by various experiences and challenges, including those of my family and community. One such experience that deeply impacted me involved my cousin Amina, who hails from Senegal. During a conversation on our WhatsApp call, I overheard my aunt urging Amina to prioritize finding a husband, despite her young age. Witnessing Amina's discomfort, I swiftly changed the subject, asking her about her summer activities. While Amina shared her mundane tasks of helping on the farm and cooking, I excitedly recounted my enriching experience studying poetry on a college campus. However, Amina's response struck a chord within me. With a hint of longing in her voice, she expressed her desire to pursue further education in neuroscience, a dream hindered by societal expectations. Determined to support her, I began sending her educational articles, encouraging her to expand her knowledge. Over time, Amina's enthusiasm for learning grew evident as she eagerly shared insights gleaned from the articles. Her passion reignited my commitment to promoting educational opportunities, especially for marginalized individuals like Amina. Motivated by Amina's experience, I took action within my community. As a member of the Beauty & Brains and Mental Health Club, I recognized the need to address the pervasive issue of gender inequality and lack of autonomy faced by young women like Amina. With this in mind, I spearheaded the creation of a presentation discussing these challenges in various societies worldwide. The response from club members was overwhelming. Many resonated deeply with the content, sharing personal stories of feeling burdened by societal expectations. Ashley, a sophomore, expressed her relief at realizing she wasn't alone in facing such pressures. Moved by the impact of our presentation, I was inspired to further my efforts in advocating for gender equality and educational empowerment. Through initiatives like organizing educational workshops and mentorship programs, I strive to provide support and resources to individuals like Amina, enabling them to pursue their dreams despite societal barriers. Reflecting on this experience, I recognize the power of community-driven action in effecting positive change. By leveraging our collective voices and resources, we can challenge societal norms and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all. In addition to this impactful experience, I have also contributed to my community through various acts of service. One notable instance occurred during my involvement in a local food drive at the New York Common Pantry, where I volunteered my time to collect donations and distribute meals to families in need. Witnessing the gratitude and relief on the faces of those we served reinforced my belief in the importance of giving back to the community and supporting those facing adversity. Overall, my commitment to making a positive impact on my community through servitude is deeply rooted in my experiences, values, and aspirations. Whether it's advocating for gender equality, promoting educational opportunities, or supporting those in need, I am dedicated to using my voice and actions to create meaningful change and uplift those around me especially when it comes to giving them their own platform to say their truth and or story.

The greatest challenge my family faced when coming to the US from Senegal was the language barrier and cultural adjustment. As immigrants, my mother arrived in a country where English was not her first language, and on a daily, as a middle schooler, I would find myself translating simple terms in the grocery. The simple fact she was getting looks for her inability to communicate properly made my blood boil. With this passion, I found myself drawn to the art of journalism, specifically when it came to giving a voice to people who have always been looked down upon. Even as a middle schooler, I found myself consistently interviewing others and gaining their perspectives, I found myself becoming a listener in a world full of people who cut each other off. Watching this struggle made me even more determined than ever to change the expectations that America forces upon immigrants like my mother, who come to this society looking for opportunity. To this day I can say, that my admiration for my mother and her patience especially from hearing her story makes me steadfast to pursue something greater than I've tried to limit myself to. Their resilience inspired me to embrace challenges head-on and strive for excellence in everything I do. I learned the importance of persistence and the value of education as a means to overcome obstacles and achieve success. Additionally when it comes to gender experiencing firsthand the struggles of immigrant women like my cousin Amina, who faced societal pressures to prioritize marriage over education, fueled my passion for advocating for gender equality and empowering marginalized communities. Reflecting on my family's journey and the challenges we have overcome, I am driven to make a positive impact on the world by breaking down barriers and advocating for social justice. Through my involvement in organizations like Beauty & Brains and Mental Health Club, I strive to create spaces where individuals can discuss and address systemic issues like gender inequality and lack of autonomy for women. By leveraging my education and experiences, I am committed to fostering dialogue, promoting diversity and inclusion, and advocating for equal opportunities for all. My mother's and cousins' reality has taught me the importance of resilience, empathy, and standing up for what is right, and I am determined to carry these values forward as I continue to explore the unheard parts of the world try to hide.

As a high school student, I was constantly driven by a desire to explore beyond the confines of familiarity. My mother's repeated question, "What's out there that's not here?" echoed in my mind, urging me to seek new experiences and perspectives. This innate curiosity led me to pursue opportunities like the Summer@Brown Pre-College program, where I immersed myself in a diverse community of global peers and delved into the study of poetry. Throughout my academic journey, I have come to understand the transformative power of education and the importance of embracing diverse viewpoints. My experiences at Brown taught me to approach learning with an open mind, recognizing the richness that comes from engaging with differing interpretations and ideas. This mindset not only deepened my understanding of poetry but also broadened my perspective on the world around me. Beyond academics, I have also learned valuable lessons about empathy and understanding. Reflecting on my relationship with my mother, I realized that her concerns about my choices were rooted in love and a desire for my well-being. This insight has shaped my approach to interpersonal relationships, driving me to listen actively and empathize with others' perspectives. Looking ahead, I am committed to leveraging my education and experiences to make a positive impact on the world. One avenue through which I plan to do this is by fostering dialogue and understanding across diverse communities. I believe that by creating spaces for individuals to share their stories and perspectives, we can break down barriers and build bridges of empathy and mutual respect. Furthermore, I am passionate about advocating for access to quality education, particularly for marginalized communities. I believe that education is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for empowerment. Through initiatives aimed at expanding educational opportunities and resources, I hope to contribute to creating a more equitable and just society. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my goals. As a recipient, I would have the financial support needed to continue pursuing my education and engaging in impactful projects and initiatives. Additionally, as someone very passionate about journalism, my mind is always surrounded with finding out the true questions to the facades in which the world tries to conceal from me. My journey thus far has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and growth. I am committed to using my education and experiences to drive positive change in the world, whether through fostering dialogue and empathy or advocating for educational equity. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can continue on this path and make a meaningful impact on the world around me.

The irony of female rage in film: a catalyze for progressiveness By Gagnessiry Fall Female Rage is a beloved genre among women of all ages, capturing their emotions and experiences as they break free from societal constraints. In film, it serves as a powerful platform for women's voices, challenging gender expectations and biases ingrained in younger generations. Specifically following characters Nina Sayers from Black Swan 2010 made by Darren Aronofsky (BS) and Babydoll from Sucker Punch 2012 made by Zack Snyder (SP) who resonate with women in the 21st century, as there’s a strive to shape female identities beyond the notion of the "perfect woman" that had been normalized in Western society. However, as more movies explore the female perspective, the line between reality and fantasy blurs, highlighting the concept of gender as a social construct. These narratives aim to dismantle stereotypes and empower women, but all they do is provide false hope to maintain the gender power society is based upon. Nina Sayers and Babydoll prove to be poor attempts at curating characters outside the rules of society as their subjects appeal to the male gaze, that being the idea that “Feminine is Mystery” as Simone De Beauvoir expressed in The Second Sex (De Beauvoir, 1949). She introduces the concept of reciprocity, which paints a mutual exchange between men and women, suggesting it’s limited by the narrow perspective of only two genders providing the concept that "women is other”. This places the female in the continued system of “Biopower” introduced by Micheal Foucault in History of Sexuality, Vol 1 (Foucault, 1976) when it comes to the regulation of gender especially in this case in media, society views and gets inspired by. Media is continuously used as lessons citizens should learn from and in society, people use these concepts to “traffic the sex/gender system” placing women as passive victims as Gayle Rubins expressed in The Traffic in Women: Notes on the “Political Economy” of Sex (Rubins, 1975). This places Female Rage as a prime example of male “fetishism and curiosity” as their gaze continuously objectifies women to be represented in a one-sided light in film studies expressed by Laura Mulvey in Fetishism and Curiosity (Mulvey, 1996). Through all these philosophies on the structure of female character the common word of “empowerment” doesn’t have a meaning when being compared to the genre of Female Rage. The Limitations of Gender follows the journey of an aspiring ballerina, Nina Sayers, and her psychological struggle to live up to the role of the Black Swan. At the beginning of the movie, Nina Sayers is introduced in a light palette that contains baby pinks, creams, and light grays which displays her childish, ambitious nature but as the pressure piles upon her, the light palette is diseased with darkness as her final image is seen with a blood red. This movie follows the lens of female perfection using the topic of ballet to appeal to the Western world. To start the use of ballet almost restricts what is seen as feminine, as it's always associated with one gender following the male gaze forcing upon the myth of “Natural Feminine” (De Beauvoir, 1949) which associates women with normalized standards society places thus stripping them away from individuality. Nina Sawyer is characterized as “a frigid little girl” (BS, 32:21) at the beginning as her mindset was skewed toward being perfect, her character was curated on the concept of what society views as light femininity. Nina at the end of the movie follows the strict eyes of being something “pure” as Leroy had said, ending her life with “I was perfect” (BS, 1:42:43) whilst appealing to the role of staying true to the idea of what feminine looks like. With the concept of ballet, the film dives into a medium the society has placed a gender upon being female, although this movie is supposed to dive away from the gender norms, it almost cements it and proves its abiding to the concept that “women are other” (De Beauvoir, 1949). The simple fact that Aronofsky attempted to create a character that defies the norms of femininity is almost ironic, his subject matter can be interpreted as placing women in the strict limitations of “Women is Mystery” therefore making Nina Sawyer a product of normalization. Black Swan proceeds to use the character, Nina Sayers, as an example of a film that dives into the concept of sex freely as a way of normalizing conversation in reality. That approach is not only something that pursues the sexualization of the female image, but it also puts upon new conversation standards for Western society. As Leroy says “Go home and touch yourself” (BS, 37:22), he places Nina in the mindset that she needs to do certain things to achieve the standards of what the ‘perfect black swan’ is. This follows her as it kickstarts the first pan of Nina’s actions to deal with anxiety which is her continuous use of scratching, specifically her back. Foucault expressed the idea that “sex is secret '' (Foucault, 1976) as it’s something society always hides but something that people always want to be outspoken about. In this case, Black Swan attempts to use this topic as an open medium although all it does is force “normalizing power” (Foucault, 1976) to fight against “repressive power” (Foucault, 1976) in society, women are placed at the forefront to help society overcome uncomfortably. But, as Foucault expressed, sexuality wasn’t something repressed, instead, society placed regulations based on the unseen hierarchy of power in which people have through the uses of censorship and denial. As black swan attempts to show a breach of norms, it almost follows the idea that talks about sex are sacred and heavily scrutinized, displaying a poor example of the progression and empowerment of the female gender in Western society. Following on, the character of Babydoll presents another flaw in the genre of female rage which is the display of sexualizing female identities when perpetuating society's flaws. Her character is presented in revealing clothes as being the first flaw in displaying a character that speaks out against the sexualization of the female identity. Following her introduction, the touchy subject of abuse is brought up and Babydoll is seen in a light of anger to achieve “freedom” (SP 29:37). Her format also being the medium of dance, through her dancing she allows herself to unlock mindsets past her frigid, timid background of abuse. This movie starts as an entrance to progression in the sense of women fighting back but then turns to more of a display of female attractiveness as “You don't want to be judged?” (SP 26:41) is used as a way of endearment as well as empowerment. Although Snyder attempts to make the focus of the movie on feminine growth, the concept of stripping and nudity takes away from the message of the movie. As said by Rubins, women are seen as “commodities” (Rubins, 1975) in the sense of their bodies being used as ways to bring messages and or generate revenue in this case from being a director of a movie. This movie places women as “passive victims” (Rubins, 1975) of male gratification and pleasure in the setting of the cabaret that is the main setting of this movie. The fact that this career field is displayed as the beginning for women’s “your fight for survival starts right now” (SP 26:41) displays Rubin's disdain for “criminalizing the idea of sex work” (Rubins, 1975). Not only does this movie one-sidedly force upon the idea that sex work is women’s escape but it also shows the stigma that gender itself has to the chains in which women are forced into “this little fantasy of freedom” (SP 1:38:58). This movie attempts to full circle out of the concept of “erotica” (Rubins, 1975), but fails to address the “sex/gender constructed system” (Rubins, 1975) that is placed upon every corner of the western society. Sucker Punch’s display through film attempts to break away from the male gaze although through the depictions of women in provocative clothing and scenes, it almost makes the idea of empowerment ironic. Mulvey brings out the term “scopophilia” which is a pleasure to watch, which is a common consensus of audiences who have watched the movie. The simple fact the movie ended with complete disregard for its message of “freedom to love” (SP 1:53:12) is sexualized, making this a complete step back from the whole point of the movie's release. It’s almost as if Babydoll's journey away from being the realm of “curiosity” (Mulvey, 1996) of the male gaze is thrown away as the targeted audience of the movie was female, instead, it was the imaginative male gaze Western society has created. The whole movie follows a continuous cycle of the “objectification of women perpetuating a cycle of desire and consumption” (Mulvey, 1996) as the ending of the movie comes in the form of Babydoll sitting lifeless to the world’s pains/tragedies against the female identity. Although the “power dynamic” (Mulvey, 1996) attempts to break men away from above women, it's almost as if this portrayal of them in a weak to powerful light stands in stark contrast to the idea of women's growth. While Female Rage films attempt to empower women and break free from societal constraints, they often fall short by perpetuating gender stereotypes and exploiting women for the male gaze. Characters like Nina Sayers and Babydoll, although intended to represent strong women, end up being mere objects of fetishism and curiosity. Thus, it is essential to continue exploring new ways of representing female characters in media that promote genuine empowerment and challenge gender norms. In wrap up, the question of how every film presented on the big screen can show the empowerment of humans in general in a society where gender associations have already been deeply ingrained in our mindsets is a complex and thought-provoking one. As we continue to explore this issue, I still don’t know how to remove bias from the perspective of the viewer, but want to express how impossible it is to separate western gender expectations and personal growth as it will always coincide. Work Cited Aronofsky, Darren. Black Swan. Fox Searchlight Pictures, 2010. a Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, in association with Legendary Pictures ; a Cruel and Unusual production ; a Zack Snyder film ; produced by Deborah Snyder, Zack Snyder ; directed by Zack Snyder ; screenplay by Zack Snyder & Steve Shibuya. Sucker Punch. Burbank, CA :Distributed by Warner Home Video, 2011 Foucault, Michel, 1926-1984 author. The History of Sexuality. New York :Pantheon Books, 19782021. Beauvoir, Simone de, 1908-1986. The Second Sex. London :Jonathan Cape, 2009. Rubin, Gayle. “The Traffic in Women: Notes on the “Political Economy” of Sex.” In Ellen Lewin, Feminist Anthropology, a Reader. Malden, Ma: Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2006 Mulvey, Laura. Fetishism and Curiosity. British Film Institute, 1996. Great Britain by St Edmundsbury Press Ltd, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

“It's time to find a husband!” I heard my aunt say to my cousin from Senegal, Amina, on our Whatsapp call. Her smile faded. Awkwardly, I changed the subject. “So what did you do over the summer?” Amina jokingly glared. “Helped at the farm and cooked food. You?” “I went to a college campus for the first time!” I beamed. “I got to study poetry and meet so many people from all over the world. It was amazing!” There was a long pause between us. She looked down, almost as if she yearned for something greater. “I wish I could go on to study, too,” she said lowly. “A husband is the last thing on my mind.” Amina went on to explain her interest in neuroscience, but had no way to pursue it. I promised to send her Newsela articles, encouraging her to expand her knowledge. Over the next few weeks, she would tell me what she learned with a glow in her eyes. A few weeks later, I couldn’t forget about what my aunt told her, and how marriage was a realistic concern, even at 13 years old. As a member of Beauty & Brains and Mental Health Club, I took the initiative to prepare a slideshow discussing the lack of autonomy for women in different societies around the world. Surprisingly many club members resonated with the presentation because they found themselves in similar situations. “I thought I was the only one experiencing stuff like that,” said Ashley, a sophomore. I was moved by how many girls felt burdened by these expectations. At Boston University, I want to be surrounded by like-minded women from different backgrounds who seek individuality and independence. I picture myself sitting in Boston University’s Sister United Organization, listening to leaders speak for women of all races and experiences. I want to help empower the next generation, to show young women they do not have to confine themselves to the standards of the society they belong to. I believe that with this activism, everyone can live the life they desire. Expanding my horizons by exploring past New York would not only satisfy my curiosity but also broaden my perspective. It would allow me to appreciate the diversity and uniqueness of different communities aside from my own, ultimately making me a more well-rounded individual when it comes to my passion for being a travel journalist exposing hidden truths in the world.