Studying Privileged Parents as a Privileged Parent
I study privileged parents. And I’m more than a little critical of privileged parents. Especially when they treat themselves—and their children—as above the rules. That said, I am a privileged parent. And so I sometimes find myself cringing at my own instincts…
Backpacks Full of Privilege
It’s that time of year again. Parents are frantically checking supply lists and packing their children’s backpacks for school. But pencils and notebooks and glue sticks aren’t the only things parents send from home. Rather, parents—or at least affluent, white parents—also send their children with strategies for securing unfair advantages in school…
Welcome to Sociology 100: A Day in the Life of an Academic Mom
It's my first day back in the office after maternity leave, and I sit down at my desk to pump. But then I realize: "the last thing I need is undergrads wondering about wet spots on my dress." So I take off my dress and zip on my coat, because it's January and it's a little cold.
I start up the pump, but then my phone buzzes. It's daycare - they ran out of milk for my son, and they want me to bring more. I glance at the clock - this is my longest break all day, and I can probably make it. So I switch into go mode….
