>Mary:
> Okay, now we're getting to the nub of it. I fully agree, women
> have been treated like dirt for thousands of years, and have a
> right to be mad as hell. And some of us males will actually help
> you change things.
Al, do you realize just how patronising that statement is? We have had
this problem before with males on this list but i think that must be before
your time, so i will try to be patient and explain.
We (womyn) do not need or want your 'help'. if you feel that equality
would give you a better world then do it for yourself, not for us. It is
patronising to help someone who doesn't need help. that is the crux of the
matter.
i think you posted some time back about an air steward helping an elderly
person put on a seat belt. The issue is - do they need help? if they
don't it is patronising. we don't need males help.
>don't be mad at men who are trying to help.
Why not?
>but don't let it slow
> down the effort to end the patriarchal system.
if we accept that we need your 'help' then we don't end the patriarchial
system. we are strong enough, intelligent enough, numerous enough and
simply enough.
>If those of us who
> agree on ending oppression just fight amongst ourselves, the
> oppressors win.
if we allow you to patronise us you and the oppressors win.
i am not saying that men cannot be a part of the equality movement. i am
saying that they need to be clear about why they are a part of it. and if
its to help us poor defenseless womyn then get back to the mens room!
>Can
> you identify your allies and stop attacking so vehemently every
> time they say the wrong thing?
> Al
>
its not that your saying the wrong thing Al its that your words belie your
attitude. You do not come across as anything other than a male dominator.
i am writing this in order that you might learn how others might view what
you say.
Respectfully,
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
"Interesting: Your people glorified organised violence for 40 centuries,
but you imprison those who employ it privately."
Mr Spock. Star Trek 'Dagger of the Mind'
