Film Study Questions North Country Name 1 What Is Sexual Har

Film Study Questions North Countryname1 What Is Sexual Harassment

Film Study Questions - North Country Name: 1) What is sexual harassment? Is sexual harassment a gender-specific problem? 2) What unwanted behaviors did the women of the mine witness that may have constituted sexual harassment? 3) How do past actions or people’s perceptions about us affect future events? (In other words, does what we do today have a bearing on how we will be judged later?) What events lead you to believe that Josey’s past will affect her future? How do the ladies’ actions outside work affect how they are treated on the job? 4) Are there any indications that a job in the mines may not suit Josey or any woman before she hires on at the mine? Why does Josey take a job in the mines? Is this factor worth the struggle that she endures? Are there parallels to wildland fire? 5) Glory asks Josey, “Okay, now, what are you? Cowboy or a cowgirl.” Josey claims to be a cowgirl, but Glory tells her she cannot be in the mine. Glory tells her, “You gotta get your cowboy on.” Should any woman in a male-dominated profession have to put her “cowboy on” to fit into the culture? (The same goes from men in women dominated professions.) Have women been accepted into the wildland fire workforce? 6) Profanity in the workplace is a controversial topic. Some find it inappropriate while others find it a part of culture—as seen in North Country. Is profanity a part of the wildland community? As a leader, how do you deal with profanity in the workplace? What is the relationship between workplace profanity and the Wildland Fire Leadership Values and Principles? 7) During Josey’s orientation, Arlen Pavich makes a comment regarding women working in the mine as well as a personal comment regarding Josey’s medical examination. He covers up the personal comment by saying, “Sense of humor, ladies. Rule-o numero uno.” Should humor be used as an excuse for poor comments? Explain. 8) Present examples from the film where the women actually contribute to their workplace problems. 9) Discuss the leadership qualities of Josey Aimes, Glory, Arlen Pavich, Donald Pearson, and the union. What values and principles do they promote or violate? Give examples of “good” and “bad” leadership. 10) Arlen states in court, “Look, men will always walk the line. It’s when they cross over it is when most gals give them a slap on the hand, get them back on their side of that line. That’s how men and women have been handling problems since Adam and Eve.” Discuss this statement. 11) This is an open-ended discussion about doing what is “right.” Everyone, regardless of gender, should respect one another regardless of crossing the line or having policies that dictate behavior. Discuss how to bring about positive change in workplace culture.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The film "North Country" provides a compelling depiction of sexual harassment and gender dynamics within a male-dominated workplace, particularly focusing on the illegal and unethical behaviors faced by women working in the mines. This essay explores the nature of sexual harassment as portrayed in the film, its implications on the characters' lives, and broader issues of workplace culture, leadership, and societal perceptions that influence behavior and change.

Understanding Sexual Harassment and Its Gender Dynamics

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature (EEOC, 2020). While often associated with women, sexual harassment is not exclusively a gender-specific problem; men can also be victims. In "North Country," women witnesses, including Josey Aimes and her colleagues, experience blatant and subtle forms of harassment, illustrating the pervasive nature of the issue within the mining environment. This underscores that harassment is more about power dynamics than solely about gender, and both men and women can perpetuate or suffer from it.

Impact of Past Actions and Perceptions on Future Events

People's perceptions and prior actions significantly influence their future. In the film, Josey’s past, including her difficult upbringing and her decision to work in a challenging environment, affects how others perceive and treat her, especially in a culture resistant to change. Similarly, the women's outside activities and community interactions shape their standing at work and influence how HR or management responds to reports of harassment. The film demonstrates that societal judgments and personal histories act as both barriers and catalysts for justice and change.

Workplace Suitability and Women's Entry into Mining and Wildland Fire Professions

Before women hire on at the mine, there are indications of potential incompatibilities, such as physical demands and toxic work culture. Josey chooses to work in the mines driven by economic necessity and a desire for independence, despite the inherent struggles. Her decision echoes contemporary discussions about women's participation in physically demanding sectors, including wildfire fighting. Parallels include the need for resilience, shared understanding, and breaking gender stereotypes to promote inclusivity in traditionally male zones.

Gender Identity and Cultural Expectations in Male-Dominated Professions

The conversation between Glory and Josey about being a cowboy or cowgirl highlights societal expectations placed on women to conform to masculine norms to fit into male-dominated environments. For women in wildland firefighting, acceptance has historically been limited; however, increasing efforts aim to foster diversity and equality. Women have begun to gain recognition and acceptance, though cultural attitudes still pose challenges, often requiring women to adapt and demonstrate resilience.

Workplace Culture and Profanity

Profanity remains a controversial aspect of workplace culture, with some viewing it as a reflection of authenticity and camaraderie, and others seeing it as inappropriate or toxic. In "North Country," profanity signals a certain worker culture, which complicates leadership and professionalism. Leaders in high-stakes environments like wildland firefighting tend to adopt policies that balance respect and authenticity, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism while fostering team cohesion.

Use of Humor and Personal Comments in Workplace Interactions

The comment by Arlen Pavich illustrates how humor can be used to obscure disrespectful behavior. Using humor to justify crude or offensive remarks is problematic, as it can perpetuate a culture of acceptance for inappropriate behavior. Effective leadership involves setting boundaries that prevent disrespect under the guise of humor, promoting a respectful workplace environment.

Contribution of Women to Workplace Problems

While some may argue that women contribute to workplace problems, it is often the complex social and cultural dynamics that underpin harassment and discrimination. In the film, some women’s reactions or silence may inadvertently enable ongoing harassment, though systemic issues are primary. Addressing these requires cultural change rather than blaming individuals.

Leadership Qualities and Ethical Principles

The characters exemplify various leadership qualities and values. Josey demonstrates resilience, morality, and a pursuit of justice, embodying integrity and courage. Glory shows empathy and support, whereas Arlen Pavich displays dismissiveness and ingrained sexism. The union’s role fluctuates between advocating for workers’ rights and failing to confront toxic culture. Effective leadership aligns with values of respect, fairness, and integrity, while unethical leadership fosters hostility and injustice.

Discussion of Men Crossing Boundaries

Arlen’s statement suggests a view that men naturally test boundaries, and the response from women is to re-establish limits. This perspective trivializes the seriousness of crossing boundaries and promotes tolerance of inappropriate behavior, which conflicts with modern principles of workplace safety and equality. Redefining cultural norms to eliminate boundary-crossing behaviors is essential for fostering respectful workplaces.

Promoting Cultural Change and Respect

Changing workplace culture requires comprehensive efforts, including policy reform, education, and leadership commitment. Encouraging open dialogues about gender equity, enforcing anti-harassment policies, and modeling respectful behavior are key. Promoting diversity initiatives, mentorship programs, and leadership training can help embed values of respect and inclusivity, creating a safer and more equitable environment for all.

Conclusion

"North Country" starkly illustrates the realities of sexual harassment, gender stereotypes, and the importance of ethical leadership in transforming workplace culture. Progress depends on societal attitudes, organizational policies, and individual actions aligned with core values of respect, fairness, and integrity. Cultivating change not only benefits women and minority groups but enhances overall organizational health and productivity.

References

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5. U.S. Forest Service. (2020). Diversity and Inclusion in Wildland Firefighting. https://www.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/pubs/66294
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8. Harvard Business Review. (2016). How to Deal with Inappropriate Humor at Work. https://hbr.org/2016/09/how-to-deal-with-inappropriate-humor-at-work
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10. United Nations. (2019). Gender Equality and Workplace Respect. https://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/egm2019/