Do Gender Studies programs create activists?

[DesertBorn]

I came across this discussion concerning a proposed bill in Wyoming that would remove public funding for Gender Studies programs.  One point made about public funding is that the programs, essentially, train activists, which goes against public interests.   The bill was shot down.  

I agree, and would go one step further.  Training for essential jobs, for public interest should be the only post high school education supported by public funding.  

Here’s the discussion:  https://www.jamesgmartin.center/2022/03/...ing-block/

I was raw material when I was in University, over 50 years ago. First time away from home. A silly country girl that thought she knew more about life than she did. I knew nothing about anything, but it took me a few years to finally realize that.

University does something to young minds. This is not a new phenomenon by a long shot. The difference between today and yesterday, is that our parents and elders, slapped us back into reality, and we didn't have a metaverse to hide in that kept the lie alive.

I will never forget the brutal slap in the face I got from my mother when I was home visiting, showing off and telling my Mom about all the mistakes her generation had made, and how detrimental to society they all were. My Mom very calmly said, "Well my darling, I think you had better find yourself a job, because I m not paying my hard earned money to a school that teaches you such dribble." And she was serious as a heart attack.

At that moment, I remember it like it was yesterday, I stopped and thought about what I was saying, and realized I was a stupid girl, letting her ego, write a check that her ass would have to cash. I woke up instantly, and was able to see through all the BS, and left it where it belonged. On campus.

Same conversation happened at my house, but it was my Dad, who had already gone the step of only paying for required STEM degree courses, and their suggested electives.   Some leeway, but he had final approval based on syllabus, or the wallet stayed shut.  This was 1970s

By the time my daughter was looking post high school, in the 2000s, she wanted me to cosign a loan for 100k to go to a private photography and arts school.  I laughed my butt off.   She was offended.  High school counselor had her all pumped up, certain she could get it paid for, since I was a single mom.  I told her, I make twice your salary so have at it, and let me know how much funding you can find.  I was such a mean mom!  Wouldnt write the check.   

Ironically, the school did have a world class reputation for many years, but sheesh, everyone has a cell phone camera that blows old film cams out of the water!  They went tits-up before she would have even graduated.  And nobody got refunds!  

When I go to a bank for a business loan, they make sure that I have a solid plan before they give me a loan.   Why not the same for student loans?