Learning Curve

Fraternities have existed in the United States ever since 1776. However, during the Civil War, student groups began to purchase real estate on a large scale and with this change came many complications. Questions were raised about initiating female students and creating sororities. Since then, fraternities have experienced many times of crisis — from anti-Masonist movements, low enrollment during times of war, feminist opposition, and civil rights movements. (more…)

This interview is with an aging American-born woman who learned to become an elephant mahout. She explores the politics of being a foreign woman in a trade dominated by Thai males, her deep love for elephants, and the idea that she will have to leave this line-of-work one day. (more…)