Discourse Community Analysis - The Women's Health and Reproductive Rights Group

It is often said that “when you go to college, you will find your group". The proper word for “your group” is a discourse community. Many people join discourse communities throughout their lives and may not necessarily know they have joined one. A discourse community is a group of individuals who share the same goals, communicate about a specific topic, or issue, and have the same motive. The individuals of the group should relate to the members emotionally, trustfully, and knowledgeably. In my English 1301 class, we discussed what makes a discourse community and how to remain a member of the group. We as a class, made a list of the things we do in our daily life and what we are passionate about that can relate to a discourse community. I automatically knew what would be at the top of my list. In late May of 2021, I joined a women's health and reproductive rights group. I am an active member of this community because I frequently attend marches and meetings. I also post upcoming events and marches on my social media account to encourage others to join the group and support protecting women's reproductive rights. I and the other group members relate emotionally and knowledgeably. When the group attends meetings, we are all respectful and trusting. We respect others' opinions and thoughts and we are open to any discussion. This is what makes us a community. When an individual is interested in joining a community, using Logos, Pathos, and Ethos are relevant to successfully gaining membership in the group. 

The women's health and reproductive rights group is a community of individuals who believe that women should have rights to their own reproductive system. I have always been extremely passionate about helping other women feel safe and comfortable with their own bodies. I knew I would be the perfect fit for this group. To be a member of this community, first, you must be educated and passionate about protecting women's rights. And, be aware of the laws that involve and affect women. I spent many nights researching the new “heartbeat bill” that was signed into law by Governor Gregg Abbott on May 19, 2021, in the state of Texas. This bill will not only be affecting women, but it will also be affecting foster care systems and health care workers. All the women's health and reproductive rights group members are educated on this bill and do not support it. The members in the group are aware of the current issues women are facing globally. [Logos]  

Since women's rights can be a very emotional topic, the group is open to helping any women who might be in danger or who might need assistance. Before we attend any march, we always check in on the members to make sure they are mentally prepared for the criticism we might face. During one of the check-ins, I remember seeing this woman who looked very tired. She walked around looking at all the posters and she looked a bit bothered. First, I was a bit scared to approach her, but then I remembered that we are a community that respects and trusts one another. As I was walking towards her, she began walking towards me also. I asked her if she was okay and she stated that it was just an emotional day for her. Before I had the chance to ask her why, tears began rolling down her face.  

She begins to tell me her story. She was in an abusive relationship for years and had no other family members to help her get out. One day she woke up and had morning sickness, and that is when she knew she was pregnant. She knew she would not be able to support her child financially or emotionally. She felt so confused and alone. She eventually was able to make a trip to a clinic, where she decided it was best to have an abortion. As tears poured down even faster, she said she felt guilty at times, but knew that was all she could do at the time. I reminded her that it is okay, and she is a strong person for having to go through that. My heart was broken yet full for her. It was a feeling I had never felt before. Being able to comfort one of the group members made me feel genuinely happy inside. This community is so powerful and so bonded. We want nothing but the best for every one of us. Helping one another and emotionally supporting each other is what makes us a community [Pathos].  

In every discourse community, there must be trust. It is our top priority in the Women’s Health and Reproductive Rights group. Trust in our community is extremely important because we all share personal thoughts, experiences, and beliefs. To be a part of the community you must agree to respect everyone within the group. And if personal stories are shared, they are kept in the “safe spot,” this is a setting where anyone can go to and share whatever they would like to share. In this area, the individuals in the group all gather around and either share or listen. When the group member is done sharing, we comfort them by saying positive affirmations. There is only one rule in the area, and it is to be respectful of others. The safe spot is one of my favorite things about this group. It reminds me that there are others who care and respect your feelings. Trust is the foundation of the group [Ethos]. 

In summary, to successfully be an active member of the Women’s Health and Reproductive Rights group, it was essential for me to relate to the other group members knowledgeably [logos], emotionally [Pathos], and respectfully [Ethos]. This community has changed me in many ways. It has educated me on issues that women are facing locally and globally. I believe this community will further expand in the future by creating additional marches, events, and even fundraisers. As a group member, I will continue advocating for the group in the future. When joining discourse communities, you must have the same motives as the other members. Expressing your commitment by attending meetings and discussions is necessary. Joining a discourse community can help build confidence, long-term friendships, and even memories that will last a lifetime. Consequently, I have demonstrated what it takes to be an active member of a discourse community.