"Craftivism": GENE29927-ETerm 2021

I had always known that knitting is viewed as a woman’s activity. However, I never realized that it is seen as only a white woman’s activity. I know that racism is present in many areas of life for people of color, but I never realized that something like knitting was one of them. It was eye opening to see how racism seeps its way into all aspects of life. The idea that kitting is a white woman’s activity because that is what is shown in the media and who is present at craft stores had never occurred to me. Since knitting is viewed as a leisure activity which only people with money (white people usually) can participate it. I found it amazing that women of color knit for Black Liberation. By knitting in public spaces, it gives them a chance to be seen and to start a conversation with people who otherwise would not pay attention. Knitting in groups allows them to have conversations about racism and police brutality. I love that knitting has the power to make social change while simultaneously providing a place where people feel safe.