An Advocate with a Loud but Feminine Voice

By Paul Turse, a.k.a “Samurai Raider”  2/25/06

How often have you seen this typical basic training scene from an Army movie involving female recruits?

Drill Sergeant:  What are you?

Recruits:  Tigers!

Drill Sergeant:  I can't hear you!  What are you?

Recruits:  Tigers!!

Drill Sergeant:  I still can't the hear you.  You sound like a bunch of girls!

Well, like, duh!  They are a bunch of girls, so what’s wrong with their sounding like girls?  Whether in a scene from a movie or one in life, the reason that some can't hear a feminine voice is simply that they refuse to listen.  That’s what’s wrong!

 (Left) Raiderette Jennifer is a political science major, working toward continuing her education, with a goal to pursue a law degree, and she may very well be a voice to reckon with.  In fact, this senior at St. Mary's College (CA) is scheduled to take her LSAT exams early this year.  "I've been doing a lot of prep work for that and hopefully will get into law school this coming fall," she told Bay Area Sports Drive/Raiderdrive.com at the Toys for Tots program.

Law and politics are more open fields now for women than they have been in the past, Jennifer noted.  "I still think that women can and should have a stronger voice in politics," she maintained.  "I mean, we don't have enough women in the Senate, but we do have Condoleeza Rice in the Cabinet, you know, for this administration.  So women's voices are definitely being heard more."

Jennifer went on to explain the value of women's voices in politics.  "Women are responsible for softer issues such as education, and I think they are capable of handling issues such as National Security.  And I think, with time, women will eventually be able to handle that."

When young girls observe prominent women, on TV, exerting a measure of influence on the affairs of state, such publicity must have a profound effect on the roles--even leadership positions--little girls might seek when they grow up, despite the fact that politics has not been a traditional role for women.

Jennifer noted that girls are learning history and seeing that there are women in politics and holding office; and such women will be role models for these girls.  "I think that should inspire them to work harder and let them know that they do have a say and that they should take pride in their rights that the women in the past have fought so hard for, such as suffrage rights."  These courageous women certainly helped to combat stereotype, an issue that still affects little girls today.

Despite the success of these great women in the early nineteenth century, and even today, not to mention throughout history, Jennifer believes that stereotypical attitudes yet persist.  "I think there are still some remnants concerning the roles of females and little girls, as far as being more submissive to men, but I think that with role models such as actors and political figures that they [girls and young women] are understanding that their voice is just as important."

When it comes to those groups being stereotyped by the public, cheerleaders--even high-class professional squads, like the Raiderettes--are pretty much near the top of list.  "Cheerleaders are definitely being stereotyped--even some of the little ones--all the way up to professional cheerleaders," Jennifer asserted, “but with more public appearances, people are understanding more that we're out here to help with the community, such as what we are doing today [Toys for Tots].  And that we are educated."  

When the fans respond with delight and fascination upon meeting the Raiderettes, it is not just because they are talented and present a striking physical appearance, Jennifer noted.  The attraction might be more the result of their education and communication skills, she went on to imply.

Because they must have an obligation not to perpetuate the negative stereotype, Raiderettes have big responsibilities, which include being a role model for youngsters.  "Trying out for the Raiderettes, you are constantly in the public eye," Jennifer explained.  "All eyes are on you, at all times, whether you realize it or not; so you have to be extra careful in what you do and how you present yourself.  It comes with the job description.  And it's great, you know!  You get to interact with people and inspire others." 

A prime example of the impact these women have on young people is evidenced by the reaction of those parents whose daughters attend the Jr. Raiderette program, where the Fabulous Females of Football both interact with and inspire young girls and their parents as well.

Should you ever have the opportunity to attend a Jr. Raiderette Clinic and to talk with the parents, you will hear comments such as these:  “My daughter idolizes the Raiderettes and looks at them as role models.”  “When the young girls work with the Raiderettes it gives them a lot of self-confidence and -discipline.”  “I hope the one thing my daughter picks up from this experience is you have to do what you are supposed to do when you are supposed to do it.”  “I believe that the program will give my daughter the drive and the ability to want to get out there and cheer and to do something positive.”   “My daughter’s self-confidence has really skyrocketed.  It helps her improve in her academics as well.”   “I hope my daughter gets the great confidence later on in herself and she believes in herself and knows that she can do whatever she puts her mind to.”  “I want my daughter to maintain the Raiderette discipline.”   “I think my daughter is learning a little bit of discipline and learning to appreciate hard work.”  “My little girl is learning she has to finish something she starts now…and the Raiderettes have helped her to understand that.”

Relating to these young girls is, perhaps, the most rewarding aspect of the Raiderette experience.  "Just being able to talk to them and encourage them to go for their goals and all of their dreams," Jennifer passionately declared, "and just seeing the smiles on their faces, I think, is [inspiring] because they truly do look up to us.  And I think we uphold that reputation [for our being their for them].

When she is not helping others to achieve their goals, or urging young girls to find their voices, and has a brief respite from her busy schedule as cheerleader, student, and part-time worker, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family and pursuing her hobbies of collage and interior decorating.  It is perhaps no surprise that she would have such hobbies, for she appears to apply them even on the job as a Raiderette.  It seems that Jennifer is able to take elements from life and arrange them in a harmonious unit to make the conditions of life brighter and more "decorative" for all whom she encounters.  Indeed, her special wisdom, which she imparts to youngsters, might help inspire them to succeed:  "Go for your dreams . . . and you can't do it alone and that it's OK to ask for help and it's OK to ask questions.  So, if you ever need anything, look up to your parents, teachers, or any other type of mentor.  And they'll always be there to guide you, and somebody will always help you."

Obviously, Jennifer presents a powerful case for women to make their voices heard.  And she does so with skill and grace.  And should she pursue a career in law, maybe one day the voice of this eloquent young advocate will ring loud and clear in another forum, one perhaps far more important than this magazine.  And, yes, it will be a powerful voice, although it will be a feminine one, and people will listen!    

(A very special thanks to the Oakland Raiders and to Karen Kovac)