After I started working at the massage parlor, Zuleika told me that she wanted me to keep her updated about my work and my safety. I understand that this is something people might worry about because of the image of massage parlors being associated with places that offer sexual services. It’s natural for outsiders to be concerned, including the owner, my colleagues, and even the customers. Anyone could potentially have bad intentions toward me. However, I don’t feel afraid at all, and I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s because I’m not afraid of using languages—whether it’s Thai with people at the parlor or English with customers. I think that as long as I can communicate with others, there isn’t much to worry about. That doesn’t mean I’m not cautious, though.
When I started working there, I just think of it as another job. Every job has its own risks; it depends on how careful we are. Nonetheless, I kept updating Zuleika and Elizabeth regularly about my work, partly because it relates to my project. There was one point that both of them brought up that made me think about women’s rights and the status of women in different societies. Elizabeth asked me if I was “feminine.” My answer was no because I don’t really understand the difference between being “feminine” and a “feminist.” So, how could I identify as one or the other? But then she asked me a few questions and told me, “You are feminine. Why not try to do something about this?” This made me reflect on the topic a little.
When I had the chance to update Zuleika, she raised another point related to being “feminine.” She talked about how men from Arab countries treat women differently because of cultural and religious differences, leading them to treat all women as they do in their home countries. I had some awareness of this before working here, from reading books, watching the news, and movies, but I didn’t think I would have to experience it myself. It made me feel slightly irritated to be treated that way, but I also understood the cultural differences. This is another reason I feel that my project topic is becoming even more challenging. However, I also found a new and interesting angle—if I could connect my topic more to women’s rights, it might help address these issues.