WGST 345 WOMENS GENDER STUDIES ASSIGNMENT 1 ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY
The purpose of this written report is to document the life events of the interviewee - a
Filipino woman who entered the paid workforce for the first time in 1970. The data collected
highlights the struggle of women to balance domestic expectations regarding women’s supposed
natural role as caregivers and both the necessity and desire to earn a wage. The interviewee, Mrs.
B, candidly recounted her struggles to balance expectations from her family and her own
personal desire to make a career for herself. The sexism inherent in the workforce at the time was
also evident in Mrs. B’s recounting.
On August 29, 2020 at 2:00pm, a face-to-face interview commenced between the writer
and interviewee. The interview took place in a quiet private backyard oasis full of greenery that
gives a relaxing atmosphere and perfect setting for an interview. The interview lasted for about
forty-five minutes. The interviewee at first seemed shocked that anyone would think her life
interesting and mentioned several times that she had nothing important to say. This demonstrates
the lack of significance many women give their own work and lived experiences. Women’s
unpaid labor is too frequently viewed as unimportant and as simply part of what women are
‘supposed’ to do.
Before the interview began, all mandatory paperwork required in order to proceed with
the questions and answers was approved and signed by both parties. A recruitment form, a
consent form and a confidential agreement were each completed. The interview began with a
brief introduction of the interviewee’s personal background and upbringing. For the sake of
confidentiality, the interviewee asked to be addressed by her initial only.
Mrs. B was raised by her grandmother in the Philippines - a situation not uncommon.
Many of her friend’s parents worked away from home and extended families often lived together