Some voters say sexism less offensive than racism

[UALRBSofL]

COLUMBUS, Ohio (CNN) -- The simple fact that either Hillary Clinton, a white woman, or Barack Obama, a black man, will likely be the Democratic nominee for president is fueling a nationwide debate about how sexism and racism may shape this campaign.

At a tea party with members of Columbus, Ohio's Junior League we posed the question: Is overt sexism more acceptable than overt racism?

Voter Babette Feibel told us, "Sexism of the nature Hillary Clinton is experiencing has been around as kind of an acceptable joke for years. As far as racism, it's definitely not politically correct or acceptable."

Hillary Clinton has had to deal with plenty. At a rally, hecklers yelled to her to iron their shirts. Radio host Rush Limbaugh told listeners, "Will this country want to actually watch a woman get older before their eyes on a daily basis?"

MSNBC's Chris Mathews suggested "the reason she's a U.S. senator, the reason she's a candidate for president, the reason she may be a front-runner is her husband messed around."

Hillary Clinton's ugly hairdos, cankles and even her ample cleavage have sparked discussion.

"To make it about her cleavage or fat ankles, it is ridiculous. That is offensive!" said voter Melissa Barrett Kirtley..........


(Excerpt) Read more at cnn.com ...

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/15/kaye.ohioracegender/



This sort of thing is hardly new and there was a lot of competition between blacks and women for the right to vote in the late 1800s and a lot of hard feelings when blacks were given that right by the 15th Amendment but women were not given the right to vote (until years later). For example, see: http://www.feminista.com/archives/v1n7/wilson.html

[hlthe2b]

1. While I am supporting Obama, it outrages me that so many deny

the blatant misogyny (and engage in it themselves) toward: Senator Hillary Clinton, her supporters, and other female DUers. It is unconscionable that any supposed DEM/Progressive would enable or engage in this.

[bain_sidhe]

2. The Man Show. I rest my case.

Ok, maybe not entirely rested... But my point is, sexism is not only acceptable, it's celebrated in our mainstream culture. "The Man Show" is one of the most visible examples, but there are others... it seems to be tied to a sense of outrage/backlash against the gains made by women in the last few decades. There are men all over the tube, in shows and in commercials "bravely fighting the feminist tide" by acting like complete macho jerks, and being unabashedly proud of themselves for doing so.

Can you imagine any such show as "The White Show" where-in white folks celebrate being white, excluding minorities (any minority), and making jokes about them?

[UALRBSofL]

3. K/R

:)