Emerging Feminist Visibility in the UK Public Relations Industry
Document information
| Author | E. Yeomans |
| School | Leeds Beckett University |
| Major | Public Relations |
| Year of publication | 2019 |
| Place | Leeds |
| Document type | Article |
| Language | English |
| Number of pages | 32 |
| Format | |
| Size | 1.37 MB |
- feminism
- public relations
- neoliberalism
Summary
I. Introduction to Feminist Visibility
The emergence of feminist visibility within the UK Public Relations (PR) industry is a critical area of inquiry. Historically, the PR sector has been marked by a reluctance to engage with feminist discourse, often reflecting broader societal gender inequalities. The question arises: is a new feminist visibility truly emerging among senior women in this field? This inquiry is timely, given the increasing prominence of women's networking organizations and discussions surrounding gender pay disparities. The research aims to explore how senior female practitioners articulate their experiences and perspectives on feminism and gender equality within a neoliberal context. The findings suggest that while there are signs of feminist visibility, the practice of feminism in PR may be constrained by the industry's alignment with neoliberal values, which often prioritize individualism over collective action.
1.1 Historical Context
The historical context of gender dynamics in the UK PR industry reveals a persistent denial of sex discrimination and a lack of feminist consciousness among practitioners. Previous studies have highlighted the industry's discomfort with feminist ideologies, which has contributed to a culture that often marginalizes women's voices. The current landscape, however, indicates a shift, with increased visibility of women's networks and advocacy for gender equality. This shift raises important questions about the nature of feminist visibility and whether it signifies a genuine transformation in the industry's approach to gender issues.
II. Neoliberalism and Feminism
The intersection of neoliberalism and feminism presents a complex dynamic within the PR industry. Neoliberal capitalism tends to co-opt feminist ideals, transforming them into individualistic pursuits rather than collective movements for social change. This phenomenon is evident in the discourse of senior female practitioners, who often navigate a landscape that demands individual success while simultaneously grappling with systemic inequalities. The concept of neoliberal feminism emerges as a critical lens through which to analyze these contradictions. While some practitioners advocate for gender equality, their strategies often reflect a reliance on personal agency rather than challenging the structural barriers that perpetuate inequality. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of such approaches in fostering meaningful change within the industry.
2.1 Postfeminist Sensibility
The notion of a postfeminist sensibility further complicates the discourse surrounding feminism in PR. This sensibility allows for the coexistence of multiple, often contradictory ideas about gender and empowerment. Senior women in PR may express a commitment to feminist principles while simultaneously engaging in practices that reinforce neoliberal values. This duality highlights the challenges faced by women in the industry as they attempt to navigate their identities and professional roles. The implications of this sensibility are significant, as it shapes the ways in which feminist discourse is embraced or rejected within the context of PR.
III. Implications for Practice
The findings of this research have important implications for practice within the UK PR industry. The evidence of feminist visibility suggests a potential for transformative change, yet the constraints imposed by neoliberalism must be acknowledged. Practitioners are encouraged to critically reflect on their roles and the broader socio-economic factors that influence their work. By fostering a collective approach to gender equality, PR professionals can challenge the individualistic narratives that dominate the industry. This shift requires a commitment to advocacy and solidarity among women in PR, as well as a willingness to confront the systemic barriers that hinder progress. The potential for a more equitable industry hinges on the ability of practitioners to engage in meaningful dialogue and action that transcends individual aspirations.
3.1 Future Research Directions
Future research should explore the evolving nature of feminist visibility in PR and its implications for practice. Longitudinal studies could provide insights into how women's experiences and discourses change over time, particularly in response to shifting societal norms and economic conditions. Additionally, comparative studies across different sectors may reveal broader patterns of neoliberal feminism and its impact on women's professional identities. Such research can contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding gender and power in contemporary workplaces.
Document reference
- Is a ‘new feminist visibility’ emerging in the UK PR industry? Senior women’s discourse and performativity within the neoliberal PR firm (Yeomans, E)
- Feminism in the media and popular culture (Gill, 2016)
- Neoliberal feminism (Rottenberg, 2014)
- Entrepreneurial discourse (Lewis, 2006)
- Women’s labour in public relations with broader socio-economic factors (L’Etang, 2015)