Stop With the Misogyny Already

Change attitudes toward women

Sexism, the belief that the male sex is inherently superior, is alive and thriving in America.  Witness the treatment and coverage of Sen. Clinton in her quest to become the first woman elected to the presidency.

From the press, Obama wins praise.  For Clinton, derision.  Her cleavage, dress, emotions, hair and husband are discussed, not her policies and accomplishments.  The toughest, most personal questions are directed at the senator.

Obama has yet to face any questions about the choices he made to abuse alcohol, cocaine and other drugs, yet he faults, with impunity, Clinton for the choices she made.  The male media of MSNBC are especially odious in their comments about our senator, and David Shuster even accused daughter Clelsea of "pimping" for her mother when she made phone calls to solicit support.

McCain, too is guilty of this sexism.  At a rally, a woman supporter asked the senator what to do about Sen. Clinton, calling her a term that in more polite society refers to a female dog.  McCain laughed, went on to answer the question, and did nothing to defend the dignity of a fellow senator or to tell his supporter she was out of order.  The media was silent.

Now if this term was replaced with one that is derogatory to African Americans and the supporter was referring to Obama, McCain could let this pass and the press would howl with racism.

Which is the greater evil?

Obama is right about one thing, it is time for change, a change in our attitude toward women.

Nancy Curnutt
Sutton Point
Pittsford

This letter was originally published in the Messenger Post Newspapers on Feb. 28.   Reprinted with permission of Nancy Curnutt.