Landscapes of Care: Feminist Approaches to Global Public Relations

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session and Reception
  In Interactive Paper Session: Public Relations Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

This paper explores and synthesizes feminist standpoint theory (FST) and a feminist ethic of care in the context of global public relations. While FST and ethic of care have been incorporated in public relations literature, they have not been explored in light of the turn from global to glocal public relations and its greater cultural emphasis. Guided by those feminist theories, I analyzed public relations conducted by coalitions of public and private organizations constituting the Global Public-Private Partnership for Handwashing with Soap (PPPHW). I found that PPPHW’s localized handwashing campaigns mirrored FST’s activist commitment to social change, lived experience, and indigenous knowledge. Additionally, an ethic of care contributed to their effectiveness in decreasing infant disease, as well as (perceived) ethicalness. Finally, FST values and ethic of care aligned with glocal public relations’ goal of local responsiveness while retaining a global message (in this case, handwashing with soap).

Author

• Amanda Kae Kennedy, U of Maryland