Brunch Ethics: Feminism & Structural Patriarchy

Emerging from our October brunch ethics discussion about the history of feminism comes our next deep dive: What are the cultural and structural aspects of patriarchy that originally sparked the rise of feminism? Do those structures still exist today? Or is feminism “dead” because our modern culture has moved beyond patriarchy?
No matter how you identify or where you stand on feminism, we invite you to join the conversation and share your perspective.

Discussion Framing & Key Themes

(Research Compiled from work of Sylvia Walby and Payscale)

• Labor & Caregiving: Women continue to handle a disproportionate share of domestic work, emotional labor, childcare, and eldercare.
• Economic Inequality: Occupational segregation (feminized sectors like care, service, and clerical work), higher rates of part-time employment, and a persistent pay gap (women earning ~84 cents on the dollar for comparable work).
• Law & Policy: State restrictions or gaps in support, such as reproductive healthcare access, limited affordable childcare, and underfunded domestic violence resources.
• Safety & Violence: The systemic impact of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and how safety concerns constrain women in public and private spaces.
• Sexuality & Double Standards: Social norms, media, and language (e.g., gendered derogatory terms) that control female sexuality while celebrating male freedom.
• Cultural Institutions: How religion, media, and education transmit gender roles—including the “hidden curriculum” in schools.

Event Logistics & Details

• Venue: On the outdoor patio at Jack’s Restaurant (Note: We are at a full-service restaurant, not a coffee shop—please be prepared to order food/beverages).
• How to Find Us: Look for the Ethical Culture sign on the table.
• Timing: Arrive a bit before 10:30 AM to order and get settled so we can start promptly.
• Weather & Seating: We’ll be outdoors! The patio has some shade, but please dress according to the weather.
• RSVP Required: Please RSVP on Meetup.
• Health Courtesy: If you have symptoms of illness, please rest up and join us at a future meeting when you’re well.

Bring your unique point of view, bring a friend, and add to the discussion. See you there!
(Cover photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash)