February 25, 2013

Why Do Some People Think The "F" Word Stands For Feminism...


In the sixties, women like Gloria Steinem became prominently known for leading the women's movement demanding basic civil rights and equality.  For years women proudly called themselves feminists, which is defined as "the doctrine advocating social, political, and all other rights of women equal to those of men." So..why do so many women today feel awkward when asked if they are a feminist. For that matter, why wouldn't a man consider himself a feminist.  I mean, don't men want their wives, daughters, sisters and mothers to be on par with their male counterparts?

On Sunday we all anxiously awaited host Seth MacFarlane, who we knew would be controversial at the 2013 Academy Awards.  I was especially turned off when he dove into a musical performance singing over and over and over again, "We Saw Your Boobs."  Frankly, it was not at all clever and made me long for the well-known musical numbers composed by the great Billy Crystal, who was notorious for his hilarious and smart introductions at the Oscars.  MacFarlane was nothing but a mischievous child, who pandered to the least common denominator.  I am no prude, but it was yet another misogynistic opportunity to use women as a punch line.  Not to mention several other off-color jokes that did not appear to sit well with the celebs.  On a night when our most cherished filmmakers and actors gather to celebrate each other's accomplishments, I can't help but think that those in the audience must have been disappointed.

In an effort to pass along some positive television options, there is a wonderful documentary on PBS Tuesday February 28th at 8 p.m.  It is called "Makers: Women Who Make America."  I know you're thinking that it may be dry and kind of boring, but don't!  It offers up everyone from Ellen DeGeneres to Danica Patrick to Lilly Ledbetter.  If you can't place her, she was the gal who we can thank for fighting for the Fair Pay Act in 2009.  The documentary chronicles the struggles and challenges that women in America have endured in an effort to persevere in order to achieve greatness in the last 50 years.   I plan on watching it as a reminder to quietly acknowledge the women who have paved the way for me and now for my daughter, who is part of a generation who really can have it all if they choose to do so.

If you decide to watch, be sure to post a comment and let everyone know what you thought of it.

       

4 comments:

  1. It's stereotyping. Those who don't want change always try to caricature those who do. The sad thing is that this ploy is successful so often. Belittle women's struggle for equality and independence by labeling them as a bunch of goofy feminists

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  2. Thanks for your comment. Agree! Appreciate that you took the time to read my blog. Have a great day and try to catch "Makers" on PBS tonight. Jules

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  3. Great to hear Helena. If you follow Twitter, you can live chat #makerschat. Jules

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