Friday Photo Feature: the Exponent Retreat by BiV

Guest post by BiV
Today’s Photo Feature is from BiV, whose photo essay captures the essence of the retreat experience.

When I told a friend I’d be attending a feminist Mormon retreat last weekend, he said, “Are both of you going to be there?” I was amused to hear that this same joke had been used on others who went to the retreat. But there were 69 of us who gathered at the Friendly Crossways in Harvard, Massachusetts to discuss the economy, nutrition, guilt, nurturing, and Mormon feminism. I was delighted by this caring and dedicated group of women. There was a wide range of ages and perspectives. The women came from all over the United States and even a few from Canada. Many of them had a lot of higher education and interesting work experience which made them intelligent and articulate and thoughtful about the world we live in. As well as attending workshops, there was much opportunity to speak with each other in small groups about issues that were important to each of us. I participated in conversations from decisions on family size to positions on gay marriage to fitting diet and exercise into one’s life.

I enjoyed the opportunity to associate with some of the bloggers from Exponent II, Feminist Mormon Housewives, By Common Consent, and Mormon Matters, as well as some with their own blogs. It was fascinating to hear the inside story of how Exponent II got started and some of the directions they plan to take in the future. As they move into the electronic medium with their blog and online magazine, I hope many of you will join in their fascinating Mormon feminist world.