Sunday, May 24, 2009
A Good Feminist Read
Susan Faludi is one of my favorite authors! She wrote an incredible book entitled Backlash. I read this brilliant book when I was in college. It really opened my eyes to gender discrimination.
Well, Ms. Faludi has written another brilliant book, The Terror Dream. It was a quick, entertaining read, taking a look at gender discrimination since September 11th. Faludi illustrates how our country reacted to 9/11 is just how we have done historically when our country has gone through tough times. Our country, our leaders, and our media copes through the creation of “captivity narratives” and the idea that the men of our country will protect and take care of us. Faludi also asks some great questions on page 259 of the book…
• Why was the attack reconceived as a threat to the American home and family?
• Why were independent female voices censured and a bugle call sounded to return to Betty Crocker domesticity?
• Why were our political and cultural stages suddenly packed with Lone Ranger leaders, Davy Crockett candidates, and John Wayne “manly men”?
• Why, in short, when confronted with an actual danger, did America call rewrite?
Below are some examples exposed in the book. These examples surprised and upset greatly.
• Feminists and other liberals caused 9/11 to occur…women’s liberation had feminized our men making our men/country weak and vulnerable to attack.
• Following 9/11 feminist-minded writers, editorial writers were disenfranchised; women speaking on media news shows shrank by 40%, female newspaper executives decreased by 26%. When news executives were questioned about this, they responded, “Listen, this is a war situation” as if the voice of women no longer had a role.
• When the Bush Administration wanted people to buy into the war they talked about the “repression of Afghan Women”. Once the bombs dropped they suddenly had other priorities and negotiated away the rights of women.
• The continuing role and theme of protecting and rescuing women.
• Women rescue workers were not honored as their male counterparts.
• The EEO suspended their practices regarding women in rescue worker roles. They noted that after 9/11 we had to have “realistic standards to protect the public” inferring that women couldn’t do the job.
• By 2005, the Bush Administration reduced sex discrimination litigation by 40%.
• Media reflected that the women’s role was to be a stay at home mother, be dependent, and to trust government.
• If you spoke out against the war or resisted marriage women were portrayed to be selfish and un-American.
• Media told women that since 9/11 had occurred that they needed to reassess their priorities. It was reported that there were surges in marriage, engagements, and pregnancies that were simply not true.
• The Media portrayed Bush and our leaders as Cowboys who could rescue a nation and protect our women and children.
• The media myth of the “security/soccer moms”…women worrisome and anxious, only focusing on family and safety.
• The myths surrounding Jessica Lynch and her “rescue”.
Faludi did another great job capturing and showing evidence of how our government and our media continues to create gender discrimination and why our society feeds into it.
I strongly recommend the book.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Run, Girl, Run!
One of the things that really struck me when reading Rep. Maloney’s book, "Rumors of Our Progress have been Greatly Exaggerated" (which was what stimulated me to begin this blog in the first place), was that women made up more than 50% of our population but is virtually non-representative in our government and in many fields. Here are some facts about women in office that is located on the website of Emily's List:
• 84% of the 110th Congress are men
• 82% of state governors are men
• 88% of large city mayors are men
• 77% of state legislators are men
• Of the 1,899 people who have served in the U.S. Senate, 35 are women. 16 of these women are serving now
• Of the 10,600 people who have served in the U.S. House, 210 are women. 71 of these women are serving now
Rep. Maloney pointed out that women must run for office to make certain that we are well represented and what we feel is important to us is reflected in our government. She pointed out a wonderful resource, Emily’s List. You must check out this site.
Their POP (Political Opportunity Program) seeks out, asks, and supports qualified pro-choice, Democratic women to run for office. Our own Robin Carnahan has benefited from Emily’s List and is featured in their video. They also have a guide to prepare for running for office and provide trainings to women.
Since the reading of Rep. Maloney’s book, I think I might consider a run for office someday. I know I would enjoy the work. I hope you will also consider to run.
As Emily’s List says, “consider yourself asked”.
• 84% of the 110th Congress are men
• 82% of state governors are men
• 88% of large city mayors are men
• 77% of state legislators are men
• Of the 1,899 people who have served in the U.S. Senate, 35 are women. 16 of these women are serving now
• Of the 10,600 people who have served in the U.S. House, 210 are women. 71 of these women are serving now
Rep. Maloney pointed out that women must run for office to make certain that we are well represented and what we feel is important to us is reflected in our government. She pointed out a wonderful resource, Emily’s List. You must check out this site.
Their POP (Political Opportunity Program) seeks out, asks, and supports qualified pro-choice, Democratic women to run for office. Our own Robin Carnahan has benefited from Emily’s List and is featured in their video. They also have a guide to prepare for running for office and provide trainings to women.
Since the reading of Rep. Maloney’s book, I think I might consider a run for office someday. I know I would enjoy the work. I hope you will also consider to run.
As Emily’s List says, “consider yourself asked”.
I'm....a Communist?
The Missouri House of Representatives voted Tuesday to pass an amendment to SB296 to protect pharmacies that refuse to fill prescription or sell over-the-counter medication to women seeking birth control.
Representative Cynthia Davis went so far as to accuse anyone opposing the amendment of being an anti-American communist. (Note: I am not making this up and I’m not overacting, check it out). I find it ironic that Rep. Davis feels that businesses should have choice as to what products to stock but that women should not have choice over their reproductive health issues…health issues that may have even been discussed with a doctor! She believes that the businesses right to chose the products they stock trumps the choice of a women carrying out her right to healthcare!
Anti-choice legislators continue to treat birth control and abortion as one and the same. It’s hard to believe that these legislators still don’t understand that birth control prevents pregnancy while abortion terminates a pregnancy. Please join me in contacting your legislator and inform them that they need to educate themselves regarding reproductive health and biology. This vote for pharmacy denial amendment was a vote against access to basic health care for Missouri women.
Once again, Missouri legislators are indulging in public displays of their wrong priorities at the expense of women’s rights to basic health care. Despite facing a serious budget crisis and growing unemployment, the leadership of the Missouri House is still chasing the wrong priorities. Please let your legislator know that Missourians don’t need them to restrict access to birth control.
(Some content of this post is taken from a Planned Parenthood email)
Representative Cynthia Davis went so far as to accuse anyone opposing the amendment of being an anti-American communist. (Note: I am not making this up and I’m not overacting, check it out). I find it ironic that Rep. Davis feels that businesses should have choice as to what products to stock but that women should not have choice over their reproductive health issues…health issues that may have even been discussed with a doctor! She believes that the businesses right to chose the products they stock trumps the choice of a women carrying out her right to healthcare!
Anti-choice legislators continue to treat birth control and abortion as one and the same. It’s hard to believe that these legislators still don’t understand that birth control prevents pregnancy while abortion terminates a pregnancy. Please join me in contacting your legislator and inform them that they need to educate themselves regarding reproductive health and biology. This vote for pharmacy denial amendment was a vote against access to basic health care for Missouri women.
Once again, Missouri legislators are indulging in public displays of their wrong priorities at the expense of women’s rights to basic health care. Despite facing a serious budget crisis and growing unemployment, the leadership of the Missouri House is still chasing the wrong priorities. Please let your legislator know that Missourians don’t need them to restrict access to birth control.
(Some content of this post is taken from a Planned Parenthood email)
Friday, May 1, 2009
Girl, What Are You Doin’?
Several weeks ago I was honored for my work. It was a big deal for me and I was surprised (embarrassed) by how I handled the situation.
I thought to myself that I would take the day off of work and honor myself, getting ready for the afternoon event later in the day. I began to think about the event and what I would wear. I obsessed over it so much that I phoned the event planner to ask what would be appropriate. I suggested for myself a business style trouser jean, a nice blouse, and a little casual jacket. The event planner literally gasped and told me that I would be embarrassed if I wore something like this, that I needed to think about my image, and that others (mostly men) would be wearing suits even though it was a business casual event.
The panic set in. I stared into my closet and selected two separate outfits. One outfit I put on, the other went in my car as a backup. I could scope out the other award recipients and change if needed or if I spilled something on myself, or something like that, I would have a back up. Of course, I had to have two professional looking bags, matching jewelry and accessories for each outfit. I also had my hair professionally done and gave myself a pedicure. In the middle of all of this, I did two loads of laundry for my family that needed clean clothes for other events going on that week.
Now, I’m running late! I finally show up and I notice that many of the men show up in kakis, a button down shirt and a jacket and of course some in suits. Some of them hadn’t even shaved….I had to shave my legs! The men have on no make up, no hairstyle (most didn’t have hair), and none seemed concerned about their accessories, etc. And I would bet you money none of them had been doing laundry prior to the event!
Men can show up to an event like this all disheveled and it’s ok. It doesn’t hurt their image because they are hard workin’ men. For some reason, women have to look good, all done up in the work place to be considered “organized, professional, and together”. Women have to have an “image of appearance” to be considered professional. I looked around thinking how fantastic I looked yet disappointed that I fell into this gender trap.
Women are paid less than men (and I believe) do more work than their male counterparts in the home and in the work place. Then they are further held back with the cost and time constraint of hairstyles, pedicures, make up, hand bags, and matching accessories and jewelry. At an event where I would be celebrated for my work, I almost damaged my image because I wasn’t wearing something appropriate for a female professional….what?
I am a no-nonsense, grass roots but professional woman. My image does not lie in what I wear, my hairstyle, or my accessories. My image is the person I am and the work that I do. Don’t forget that ladies!
I thought to myself that I would take the day off of work and honor myself, getting ready for the afternoon event later in the day. I began to think about the event and what I would wear. I obsessed over it so much that I phoned the event planner to ask what would be appropriate. I suggested for myself a business style trouser jean, a nice blouse, and a little casual jacket. The event planner literally gasped and told me that I would be embarrassed if I wore something like this, that I needed to think about my image, and that others (mostly men) would be wearing suits even though it was a business casual event.
The panic set in. I stared into my closet and selected two separate outfits. One outfit I put on, the other went in my car as a backup. I could scope out the other award recipients and change if needed or if I spilled something on myself, or something like that, I would have a back up. Of course, I had to have two professional looking bags, matching jewelry and accessories for each outfit. I also had my hair professionally done and gave myself a pedicure. In the middle of all of this, I did two loads of laundry for my family that needed clean clothes for other events going on that week.
Now, I’m running late! I finally show up and I notice that many of the men show up in kakis, a button down shirt and a jacket and of course some in suits. Some of them hadn’t even shaved….I had to shave my legs! The men have on no make up, no hairstyle (most didn’t have hair), and none seemed concerned about their accessories, etc. And I would bet you money none of them had been doing laundry prior to the event!
Men can show up to an event like this all disheveled and it’s ok. It doesn’t hurt their image because they are hard workin’ men. For some reason, women have to look good, all done up in the work place to be considered “organized, professional, and together”. Women have to have an “image of appearance” to be considered professional. I looked around thinking how fantastic I looked yet disappointed that I fell into this gender trap.
Women are paid less than men (and I believe) do more work than their male counterparts in the home and in the work place. Then they are further held back with the cost and time constraint of hairstyles, pedicures, make up, hand bags, and matching accessories and jewelry. At an event where I would be celebrated for my work, I almost damaged my image because I wasn’t wearing something appropriate for a female professional….what?
I am a no-nonsense, grass roots but professional woman. My image does not lie in what I wear, my hairstyle, or my accessories. My image is the person I am and the work that I do. Don’t forget that ladies!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Shame On You Rep. Foxx!
Representative Virginia Foxx of North Carolina took the floor of the House and debated against the Matthew Shepard Act which would extend hate crime protections to include sexual orientation. For me, her debating against these protections in itself is an outrage. Why would anyone stand in the way of hate crime protection for any group?
What was beyond outrage was that Rep. Foxx during her debate, stated the following, "We know that young man was killed in the commitment of a robbery. It wasn't because he was gay," Foxx said during debate. "The bill was named for him, the hate-crimes bill was named for him, but it's really a hoax that continues to be used as an excuse for passing these bills."
I was so disappointed in Representative Foxx’s actions that I wrote her and told her about it. I was disappointed that she referred to the story of Matthew Shepard as a hoax. I was disappointed that as a Congresswoman she took the floor of the House and spoke on a bill that she obviously had not researched. While I understand that she now has stated that she believes she used "a poor choice of words", I cannot believe that someone taking the floor of the House would not at least research and prepare talking points so that such a grave error would not occur.
I believe that our elected officials have a responsibility to at least protect the human rights of our citizens. Consequently, I urged her to educate herself on diversity issues prior to spreading further myths and stereotypes that could lead to future hate crimes. One site I recommended to her was the Human Rights Campaign.
Please take the time to tell Representative Foxx what you think about her actions by emailing her.
Fortunately, the Matthew Shepard Act passed the house.
What was beyond outrage was that Rep. Foxx during her debate, stated the following, "We know that young man was killed in the commitment of a robbery. It wasn't because he was gay," Foxx said during debate. "The bill was named for him, the hate-crimes bill was named for him, but it's really a hoax that continues to be used as an excuse for passing these bills."
I was so disappointed in Representative Foxx’s actions that I wrote her and told her about it. I was disappointed that she referred to the story of Matthew Shepard as a hoax. I was disappointed that as a Congresswoman she took the floor of the House and spoke on a bill that she obviously had not researched. While I understand that she now has stated that she believes she used "a poor choice of words", I cannot believe that someone taking the floor of the House would not at least research and prepare talking points so that such a grave error would not occur.
I believe that our elected officials have a responsibility to at least protect the human rights of our citizens. Consequently, I urged her to educate herself on diversity issues prior to spreading further myths and stereotypes that could lead to future hate crimes. One site I recommended to her was the Human Rights Campaign.
Please take the time to tell Representative Foxx what you think about her actions by emailing her.
Fortunately, the Matthew Shepard Act passed the house.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Disability History Bill
This morning, I wrote Missouri Representative Grisamore and thanked him for sponsoring HB 1047. I also wrote the Representatives I know and informed them of the importance of this Bill, asking them to support it.
HB 1047, would require all schools to add Disability History and Awareness to their curriculum. Many states have passed similar legislation and I hope that Missouri can benefit from a similar law.
With the passing of HB 1047, I believe that it will lead to the better treatment of people with disabilities, lead to the encouragement to individuals with disabilities to develop increased self-esteem, and the reaffirmation of the local and federal commitment to full inclusion.
The disability civil rights movement is frozen in time. I believe it is due to society’s negative perception of disability…it’s a social construct. I believe that the limitation does not reside within the individual. Rather, the limitation is really how society perceives disability and how citizens design our programs, policies, buildings and curricula. Disability should be a part of all diversity initiatives and should be recognized as merely a difference not a medical malady.
I would encourage you to review the websites below for further information.
www.disabilitystudiesforteachers.org
www.disabilitymuseum.org
www.disabilityhistory.org/index.html
www.smc.edu/disabledstudents/guide/34philos.htm
William Loren Katz once stated, “If you believe people have no history worth mentioning, it’s easy to believe they have no humanity worth defending”.
Please inform your legislators of HB 1047 and ask them to support the bill.
HB 1047, would require all schools to add Disability History and Awareness to their curriculum. Many states have passed similar legislation and I hope that Missouri can benefit from a similar law.
With the passing of HB 1047, I believe that it will lead to the better treatment of people with disabilities, lead to the encouragement to individuals with disabilities to develop increased self-esteem, and the reaffirmation of the local and federal commitment to full inclusion.
The disability civil rights movement is frozen in time. I believe it is due to society’s negative perception of disability…it’s a social construct. I believe that the limitation does not reside within the individual. Rather, the limitation is really how society perceives disability and how citizens design our programs, policies, buildings and curricula. Disability should be a part of all diversity initiatives and should be recognized as merely a difference not a medical malady.
I would encourage you to review the websites below for further information.
www.disabilitystudiesforteachers.org
www.disabilitymuseum.org
www.disabilityhistory.org/index.html
www.smc.edu/disabledstudents/guide/34philos.htm
William Loren Katz once stated, “If you believe people have no history worth mentioning, it’s easy to believe they have no humanity worth defending”.
Please inform your legislators of HB 1047 and ask them to support the bill.
Put Prevention First
This morning I wrote my Missouri state Representative and Senator, asking them to NOT support HCS HB 46 & 434 and SB 264. These bills make assisting a woman with obtaining an abortion a crime. This bill is too extreme for Missouri and does nothing to prevent unintended pregnancy. It intrudes on the doctor/patient relationship and ignores the standard practice of medical care already in place for abortion providers. In fact, Missouri law already requires the strictest and most detailed informed consent process for abortion; more restrictive than for any other medical procedure.
I suggested to my legislators that rather than advancing legislation that endangers the health and safety of women, that they should support the Prevention First Act (SB 329 and HB 999). I believe that this is the responsible way to support Missouri families. The Prevention First Act focuses on prevention and provides comprehensive information and education about how to stay safe and healthy.
Please join me in contacting your legislators and educate them on the Prevention First Act.
I suggested to my legislators that rather than advancing legislation that endangers the health and safety of women, that they should support the Prevention First Act (SB 329 and HB 999). I believe that this is the responsible way to support Missouri families. The Prevention First Act focuses on prevention and provides comprehensive information and education about how to stay safe and healthy.
Please join me in contacting your legislators and educate them on the Prevention First Act.
Friday, April 10, 2009
No Fear Here
I am a Christian and I am for equal rights…human rights for all. Many times, people become fearful of the thought of us all having equal rights. Fear has played a significant role in politics the last decade or so; especially when it comes to equal rights. Especially, when we speak of equal rights for the LGBT community.
I am a Christian and I believe in the right for marriage equality. To me, this is simply a human right issue, a social justice issue for the LGBT community. Fear has played a major role in this conflict and it is important that we continue to constantly educate ourselves on this topic and to not let fear take over this conversation.
For example, please review the new ad campaign developed by the National Organization for Marriage. This ad is driven by fear and provides misleading examples of how equal rights for the LGBT community will take away the religious rights of others. The Human Rights Campaign does a great job of reviewing the content of the ad, bringing forth the real truth to the allegations provided.
The Human Rights Campaign also does an excellent job of summarizing the Top Ten Reasons for Marriage Equality.
Please take the time to review the information so if the topic comes up in conversation you can be an advocate for equal rights.
I am a Christian and I believe in the right for marriage equality. To me, this is simply a human right issue, a social justice issue for the LGBT community. Fear has played a major role in this conflict and it is important that we continue to constantly educate ourselves on this topic and to not let fear take over this conversation.
For example, please review the new ad campaign developed by the National Organization for Marriage. This ad is driven by fear and provides misleading examples of how equal rights for the LGBT community will take away the religious rights of others. The Human Rights Campaign does a great job of reviewing the content of the ad, bringing forth the real truth to the allegations provided.
The Human Rights Campaign also does an excellent job of summarizing the Top Ten Reasons for Marriage Equality.
Please take the time to review the information so if the topic comes up in conversation you can be an advocate for equal rights.
A President for Equal Rights
President Obama is doing a fabulous job! In my opinion, he has already set a record for civil rights. His latest move is toward the enhancement of rights for people with disabilities. President Obama does plan to sign the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (which I wrote about a few posts ago) and to make sure our government ratifies it. If you emailed him as I suggested in my prior post, thank you so much for doing so.
President Obama states that he wants the US to be a leader in disability rights! He has a plan and it fits with the goals of self-advocacy.
Obama’s Plan includes the following:
• Provide equal educational opportunities.
• End discrimination.
• Increase the employment rate.
• Support independent, community-based living.
To learn more, check out Obama’s website regarding his thoughts about disability. And if you haven’t emailed President Obama about these issues, please do.
President Obama states that he wants the US to be a leader in disability rights! He has a plan and it fits with the goals of self-advocacy.
Obama’s Plan includes the following:
• Provide equal educational opportunities.
• End discrimination.
• Increase the employment rate.
• Support independent, community-based living.
To learn more, check out Obama’s website regarding his thoughts about disability. And if you haven’t emailed President Obama about these issues, please do.
Damn It, I Want Cake, Too!
What is it with women and jealousy in the work place? At least, I think it is jealousy? Women have been competitors in the workplace for a while now but so many times it goes beyond the boundaries of what is appropriate. Many women are experiencing this from other female co-workers and administrative assistants.
I know I have had my share of workplace conflict that has included down right cat fights, lying and unethical/unprofessional behavior. I don't put up with it but it drives me nuts! I don't have time to put up with the pettiness of it all and document others' behavior to confront and/or turn it over to their supervisors if necessary.
Some examples of this kind of behavior include: pretending to not know what I ask for or to do the task wrong on purpose, doing tasks for men but not women professionals, stealing a co-workers work and taking credit for it, calling men by their titles but calling the women by their first names, gossiping about women professionals, talking about them disrespectfully behind their backs, etc.
I had a run in with my own administrative assistant and had to confront her on her behaviors. I demanded respect and documented for her what was inappropriate with her behaviors. Just as I thought I had obtained piece with the administrative assistant….Here comes another today. The administrative assistant next door came over to offer some extra cake they had left over from a meeting. She made the rounds to the other administrative assistants offering cake. Then she asked all of the professional men if they would like cake and passed it all out. But did she offer cake to me or the other professional woman the same age as me....NO! Now I choose my battles. I really didn't want cake (it had coconut in the icing, I don't care for that) but I did want the respect and to merely be treated equally.
With all of the discrimination that women experience in the workplace, why are we so catty (meow)? Why don't we respect and support each other? I am a very young, professional woman and while I have worked very hard to achieve the success I have, some may perceive that it has come easy for me. So all of the women I have had conflict with have been older than I. Sometimes I wonder if, perhaps, they are jealous…that they didn’t have the same opportunities that young women do today? Perhaps being from an older generation they don’t believe women should have power in the workplace? Maybe they don’t know how to respond to women in supervisory positions because women have only been in these positions for a short period of time and they don’t know how to deal with that kind of exposure to women in these roles?
If anyone has insight to this, please post a response. All I know is that I want my cake and I want to eat it, too.
I know I have had my share of workplace conflict that has included down right cat fights, lying and unethical/unprofessional behavior. I don't put up with it but it drives me nuts! I don't have time to put up with the pettiness of it all and document others' behavior to confront and/or turn it over to their supervisors if necessary.
Some examples of this kind of behavior include: pretending to not know what I ask for or to do the task wrong on purpose, doing tasks for men but not women professionals, stealing a co-workers work and taking credit for it, calling men by their titles but calling the women by their first names, gossiping about women professionals, talking about them disrespectfully behind their backs, etc.
I had a run in with my own administrative assistant and had to confront her on her behaviors. I demanded respect and documented for her what was inappropriate with her behaviors. Just as I thought I had obtained piece with the administrative assistant….Here comes another today. The administrative assistant next door came over to offer some extra cake they had left over from a meeting. She made the rounds to the other administrative assistants offering cake. Then she asked all of the professional men if they would like cake and passed it all out. But did she offer cake to me or the other professional woman the same age as me....NO! Now I choose my battles. I really didn't want cake (it had coconut in the icing, I don't care for that) but I did want the respect and to merely be treated equally.
With all of the discrimination that women experience in the workplace, why are we so catty (meow)? Why don't we respect and support each other? I am a very young, professional woman and while I have worked very hard to achieve the success I have, some may perceive that it has come easy for me. So all of the women I have had conflict with have been older than I. Sometimes I wonder if, perhaps, they are jealous…that they didn’t have the same opportunities that young women do today? Perhaps being from an older generation they don’t believe women should have power in the workplace? Maybe they don’t know how to respond to women in supervisory positions because women have only been in these positions for a short period of time and they don’t know how to deal with that kind of exposure to women in these roles?
If anyone has insight to this, please post a response. All I know is that I want my cake and I want to eat it, too.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Reality Women…Really?
I believe, like many other feminists, that we are experiencing a backlash regarding the image of women in television. Our young girls get a lot of information regarding the image of women from television.
Our family doesn’t watch much television so I’m not really up to date with current, positive images of women on TV. But, since we were all off for spring break, we got quite a bit more exposure than typical.
I was surprised by the amount of reality TV shows and the role women played. Here are just a few examples just off the top of my head…
Where are the shows with the strong, intelligent, leading women?! If I am missing them, please send them to me (I don’t watch as much television as I did as a youngster). I asked my family and they could only come up with the following: Hannah Montana, iCarly, Medium, The Closer, and Mariska Hargitay on Law and Order SVU. My concern is that with just these few shows listed, there is a big hole in the programming for our pre-teen and teenage girls (they don’t watch the Nickelodeon shows and probably don’t view Medium, Law and Order SVU, etc.). I also wonder what our young men’s concept of women’s roles are? Do they think this is what real women are all about? If so, they’re in for a rude awakening.
I recall growing up in the 1970s with The Bionic Woman, Cagney and Lacey, Charlie’s Angels, Maude, Murphy Brown, Mary Tyler Moore, etc. And these leading ladies were a big, positive change compared to June Cleaver and I Dream of Jeanie, etc. We made tremendous progress and now here we are in 2009…what happened?!
I feel like we’re slipping here with our prime time TV image. We need more positive role models for our girls and our women in television. We need to pressure the television executives to portray women in better, more respectable roles. We need women in prime time TV roles that really reflect real women.
Think about it. We don't want this to be our reality.
Our family doesn’t watch much television so I’m not really up to date with current, positive images of women on TV. But, since we were all off for spring break, we got quite a bit more exposure than typical.
I was surprised by the amount of reality TV shows and the role women played. Here are just a few examples just off the top of my head…
- The Bachelor-Women desperately fighting for and doing anything for a man.
- American Idol’s Paul Abdul- Is she drunk, high, or just bizarre being the only professional on the show who can’t provide constructive criticism.
- America’s Next Top Model- The title says it all.
- Platinum Weddings- Women planning wedding ceremonies that cost approximately one-million dollars or more...seriously.
- Bridezillas-Now I appreciate strong, opinionated women, but there really needs to be a respectable balance here...embarrassing!
- Little Miss Perfect-Pageants for young children and their mothers.
- 17 Kids and Counting-The example here is that you should have 18 children, birth all of them, home school them, and be full of grace…definitely not my reality.
- Flavor of Love- This one makes my skin crawl…I don’t know what else to say.
- The Real Housewives of (pick a city)- Is this really reality?
- Say Yes to the Dress- A show dedicated to the drama of picking out your wedding dress.
- Who’s Your Daddy?- Need I say more?
- The Girl's Next Door- This is a show about the Playboy Bunnies.
- Nanny 911/Super Nanny-Even the women who stay at home with the children can’t handle their own kids and have to be “rescued”!
Where are the shows with the strong, intelligent, leading women?! If I am missing them, please send them to me (I don’t watch as much television as I did as a youngster). I asked my family and they could only come up with the following: Hannah Montana, iCarly, Medium, The Closer, and Mariska Hargitay on Law and Order SVU. My concern is that with just these few shows listed, there is a big hole in the programming for our pre-teen and teenage girls (they don’t watch the Nickelodeon shows and probably don’t view Medium, Law and Order SVU, etc.). I also wonder what our young men’s concept of women’s roles are? Do they think this is what real women are all about? If so, they’re in for a rude awakening.
I recall growing up in the 1970s with The Bionic Woman, Cagney and Lacey, Charlie’s Angels, Maude, Murphy Brown, Mary Tyler Moore, etc. And these leading ladies were a big, positive change compared to June Cleaver and I Dream of Jeanie, etc. We made tremendous progress and now here we are in 2009…what happened?!
I feel like we’re slipping here with our prime time TV image. We need more positive role models for our girls and our women in television. We need to pressure the television executives to portray women in better, more respectable roles. We need women in prime time TV roles that really reflect real women.
Think about it. We don't want this to be our reality.
Friday, March 27, 2009
More on EC and Rape Survivors
Now that we have educated ourselves a bit regarding EC in the last post, did you know that many hospitals do not provide EC as an option to rape survivors! Why is that? Why doesn’t emergency room staff discuss it or at least inform the woman of the option?
It seems that many of the hospitals that refuse to even discuss or provide Plan B are religious hospitals, such as Catholic hospitals. But it has been reported in other hospitals as well. It seems that morality is the reasoning behind not providing and/or not discussing EC.
A rape survivor has a lot of things on her mind and she ought to at least be able to weigh all of her options and act on them, to include information and the use of EC if she chooses. Many times, bills have been filed on the national level to make hospitals provide the option and the medication if the rape survivor chooses to take EC. Each time the bill never passes. Why is this? My searches come up empty. I'm guessing it is the power of the religious right? Some states have been successful in passing bills in their own state, such as Washington and Ohio.
If you would like to see a change on a federal level to end this kind of oppression, you may learn more at NARAL.
It seems that many of the hospitals that refuse to even discuss or provide Plan B are religious hospitals, such as Catholic hospitals. But it has been reported in other hospitals as well. It seems that morality is the reasoning behind not providing and/or not discussing EC.
A rape survivor has a lot of things on her mind and she ought to at least be able to weigh all of her options and act on them, to include information and the use of EC if she chooses. Many times, bills have been filed on the national level to make hospitals provide the option and the medication if the rape survivor chooses to take EC. Each time the bill never passes. Why is this? My searches come up empty. I'm guessing it is the power of the religious right? Some states have been successful in passing bills in their own state, such as Washington and Ohio.
If you would like to see a change on a federal level to end this kind of oppression, you may learn more at NARAL.
Pardon Me, Do You Carry EC?
There is a great deal of confusion surrounding EC (emergency contraception). EC is sometimes known as “the day after pill”. The brand name is called “Plan B”. EC is NOT an “abortion pill”. EC is simply another type of birth control. It is FDA approved and can be purchased over the counter. You don’t need a prescription, but you do need an ID. You must be 18 years old to purchase the medication. If younger, you can obtain the drug with a prescription.
EC is a responsible way to prevent pregnancy (and abortions). Sometimes things just happen such as forgetting to take your regular birth control pill, the condom breaks, date rape, you realize you made a big mistake, etc. Sometimes you need a Plan B.
In order to be effective, EC may be used up to 120 hours after having sex, the sooner the better! Plan B basically works like a typical birth control pill, only it is a larger dose of hormone. It stops ovulation which prevents fertilization. Again, this is not the abortion pill or RU-486, which is only administered after a pregnancy has been established…that’s not what we are talking about here.
EC is a wonderful thing if women can purchase the drug and do so in the short amount of time necessary. The last couple of years it has been a fight for women to obtain the medication. In Maloney’s book , she gives specific examples of women being turned away when trying to obtain the medication. Even one rape survivor could not obtain EC and had to have her physician obtain it for her. Remember, time is of the essence here. Maloney also illustrates in her book the case regarding Wal-Mart in which the big business was eventually forced to provide the product.
Unfortunately, under the law, pharmacists can still not provide Plan B claiming moral reasons. But, they must refer a woman to another pharmacy that does provide Plan B. It is my understanding that the referral doesn’t always happen and many women don’t realize that the pharmacist is obligated to provide the referral.
We must be vigilant regarding all of our health care needs. So I called my pharmacy to make certain that they do provide Plan B. The Walgreens here in Springfield carries Plan B in all of their stores. I thanked them for it. I also called the Wal-Mart on Independence. They also carry Plan B in that Wal-Mart and all of their other Springfield stores. Again, I thanked them for it. I suggest you do the same and only support pharmacies that meet all of our health care needs.
EC is a responsible way to prevent pregnancy (and abortions). Sometimes things just happen such as forgetting to take your regular birth control pill, the condom breaks, date rape, you realize you made a big mistake, etc. Sometimes you need a Plan B.
In order to be effective, EC may be used up to 120 hours after having sex, the sooner the better! Plan B basically works like a typical birth control pill, only it is a larger dose of hormone. It stops ovulation which prevents fertilization. Again, this is not the abortion pill or RU-486, which is only administered after a pregnancy has been established…that’s not what we are talking about here.
EC is a wonderful thing if women can purchase the drug and do so in the short amount of time necessary. The last couple of years it has been a fight for women to obtain the medication. In Maloney’s book , she gives specific examples of women being turned away when trying to obtain the medication. Even one rape survivor could not obtain EC and had to have her physician obtain it for her. Remember, time is of the essence here. Maloney also illustrates in her book the case regarding Wal-Mart in which the big business was eventually forced to provide the product.
Unfortunately, under the law, pharmacists can still not provide Plan B claiming moral reasons. But, they must refer a woman to another pharmacy that does provide Plan B. It is my understanding that the referral doesn’t always happen and many women don’t realize that the pharmacist is obligated to provide the referral.
We must be vigilant regarding all of our health care needs. So I called my pharmacy to make certain that they do provide Plan B. The Walgreens here in Springfield carries Plan B in all of their stores. I thanked them for it. I also called the Wal-Mart on Independence. They also carry Plan B in that Wal-Mart and all of their other Springfield stores. Again, I thanked them for it. I suggest you do the same and only support pharmacies that meet all of our health care needs.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Let's Put It All In Writing
When I look at the United States in comparison to other countries on human rights, I think our country is a great nation. We have finally passed the Lilly Ledbetter Act so that women should be more likely to receive equal pay. But why did it take so long to get it in writing? While women enjoy many human and civil rights that are not enjoyed by women abroad, why can’t we get it in writing with the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment? The United States seems to have a problem with putting human rights in writing. Why is that?
When reviewing UN Conventions, I was shocked and quite frankly embarrassed that we have not signed two of the Conventions. I wrote President Obama and his staff this morning about these very issues (and congratulated him on the great work he has done to date). I requested that he support and sign the two UN Conventions below.
• UN Convention, Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others. This resolution declares that the enslavement of women and children subjected to prostitution is incompatible with the dignity and fundamental rights of the human person. The convention describes procedures for combating international traffic for the purpose of prostitution, including extradition of offenders. It also prohibits the running brothels and renting accommodation for prostitution purposes.
Member States that have signed, ratified, and implemented this convention are preventing prostitution by moral education and civics training, in and out of school, eliminating discrimination that ostracizes prostitutes and makes their reabsorption into society more difficult, curbing the pornography industry and the trade in pornography and penalizing them severely when minors are involved, punishing all forms of procuring in such a way as to deter it, particularly when it exploits minors.
• The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is an international human rights instrument of the United intended to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Parties to the Convention are required to promote, protect, and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities and ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law.
There are eight guiding principles that underlie the Convention:
1. Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one's own choices, and independence of persons
2. Non-discrimination
3. Full and effective participation and inclusion in society
4. Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity
5. Equality of opportunity
6. Accessibility
7. Equality between men and women
8. Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities
I hope that the United States signs on and supports these Conventions. It is the right thing to do and I think it might help enhance our country's image, our stand on human rights. Please consider letting President Obama and his staff know how you feel regarding these issues.
When reviewing UN Conventions, I was shocked and quite frankly embarrassed that we have not signed two of the Conventions. I wrote President Obama and his staff this morning about these very issues (and congratulated him on the great work he has done to date). I requested that he support and sign the two UN Conventions below.
• UN Convention, Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others. This resolution declares that the enslavement of women and children subjected to prostitution is incompatible with the dignity and fundamental rights of the human person. The convention describes procedures for combating international traffic for the purpose of prostitution, including extradition of offenders. It also prohibits the running brothels and renting accommodation for prostitution purposes.
Member States that have signed, ratified, and implemented this convention are preventing prostitution by moral education and civics training, in and out of school, eliminating discrimination that ostracizes prostitutes and makes their reabsorption into society more difficult, curbing the pornography industry and the trade in pornography and penalizing them severely when minors are involved, punishing all forms of procuring in such a way as to deter it, particularly when it exploits minors.
• The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is an international human rights instrument of the United intended to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Parties to the Convention are required to promote, protect, and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities and ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law.
There are eight guiding principles that underlie the Convention:
1. Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one's own choices, and independence of persons
2. Non-discrimination
3. Full and effective participation and inclusion in society
4. Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity
5. Equality of opportunity
6. Accessibility
7. Equality between men and women
8. Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities
I hope that the United States signs on and supports these Conventions. It is the right thing to do and I think it might help enhance our country's image, our stand on human rights. Please consider letting President Obama and his staff know how you feel regarding these issues.
Monday, March 23, 2009
We Have Equal Rights...Right?
Wrong. The majority of Americans believe that women have equal rights. Remember the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), women’s lib, and all that. Most believe the ERA is in our constitution, but unfortunately, it’s not.
Please allow me to summarize what happened…Alice Paul wrote the ERA in 1923. Ms. Paul was an incredible suffragist leader and founder of the National Woman’s Party. These incredibly strong, courageous women felt that the ERA was the next logical step since they won the right to vote, the 19th Amendment.
The ERA was introduced into every session of Congress between 1923 and 1972. It was then passed and sent to the states for ratification. The ERA passed but it was never ratified. America, just 37 years ago, was only able to get 35 states to ratify the amendment (we need 38 to ratify the amendment). It is now 2009 and we still cannot get the ERA ratified. How can this be? We only need three of fifteen states to ratify (and of course one of them is Missouri). Shame on these fifteen states.
So, I ask…what is the problem America? Why is it that American women do not have equal rights in the constitution? We need this amendment, to preserve the rights we have fought so hard to obtain and to not lose them. Let’s get this ratified! I wrote my state legislators and the incredible Senator Claire McCaskill so that they all know what my thoughts are on this. For more information, check out these links and write your state legislators as well.
The National Council of Women’s Organization has formed an ERA Task Force, that links to a great website, hosted by the NCWA and the Alice Paul Institute, summarizing the situation and what we need to do to make a change.
Please allow me to summarize what happened…Alice Paul wrote the ERA in 1923. Ms. Paul was an incredible suffragist leader and founder of the National Woman’s Party. These incredibly strong, courageous women felt that the ERA was the next logical step since they won the right to vote, the 19th Amendment.
The ERA was introduced into every session of Congress between 1923 and 1972. It was then passed and sent to the states for ratification. The ERA passed but it was never ratified. America, just 37 years ago, was only able to get 35 states to ratify the amendment (we need 38 to ratify the amendment). It is now 2009 and we still cannot get the ERA ratified. How can this be? We only need three of fifteen states to ratify (and of course one of them is Missouri). Shame on these fifteen states.
So, I ask…what is the problem America? Why is it that American women do not have equal rights in the constitution? We need this amendment, to preserve the rights we have fought so hard to obtain and to not lose them. Let’s get this ratified! I wrote my state legislators and the incredible Senator Claire McCaskill so that they all know what my thoughts are on this. For more information, check out these links and write your state legislators as well.
The National Council of Women’s Organization has formed an ERA Task Force, that links to a great website, hosted by the NCWA and the Alice Paul Institute, summarizing the situation and what we need to do to make a change.
The Creation of Diana’s Wisdom
I am a champion for human rights – specifically for the rights of the disabled, women, and the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender, Questioning) community. For entertainment, I greatly enjoy documentaries and non-fiction books about politics and human/civil rights.
For a few months, I’ve been in search for a good read regarding women and politics. In college, I read Susan Faludi’s, Backlash, and I haven’t found a book yet that has met my high expectations until now. I am excited to share a recommendation for you liberal-thinking folk regarding women and politics.
Rumors of Our Progress have been Greatly Exaggerated is written by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. This book shines the light on our current situation when it comes to gender discrimination, and is a quick, easy, and worthwhile read. Each chapter focuses on a topic and at the end of each chapter, Representative Maloney provides a Plan of Action for each reader to consider. This book has motivated me to make a difference for myself, my daughter, and all of my sisters.
Consequently, I have developed a plan of my own to enhance our progress as women. As I move forward with the plan, I will share the things I’ve done and thought about. I will also note things in the media that I find interesting in my work toward human rights for women and for all.
I hope you enjoy my thoughts…Diana’s Wisdom.
For a few months, I’ve been in search for a good read regarding women and politics. In college, I read Susan Faludi’s, Backlash, and I haven’t found a book yet that has met my high expectations until now. I am excited to share a recommendation for you liberal-thinking folk regarding women and politics.
Rumors of Our Progress have been Greatly Exaggerated is written by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. This book shines the light on our current situation when it comes to gender discrimination, and is a quick, easy, and worthwhile read. Each chapter focuses on a topic and at the end of each chapter, Representative Maloney provides a Plan of Action for each reader to consider. This book has motivated me to make a difference for myself, my daughter, and all of my sisters.
Consequently, I have developed a plan of my own to enhance our progress as women. As I move forward with the plan, I will share the things I’ve done and thought about. I will also note things in the media that I find interesting in my work toward human rights for women and for all.
I hope you enjoy my thoughts…Diana’s Wisdom.
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