On Thu, 17 Nov 1994, Ani Mareck wrote:
> someone wrote:
>
> > i think part of asserting ourselves is pointing out
> this type of sexism to men directly
>
> IMHO to "point out sexism directly" is to place ourselves in the traditional
> female role of protecting ourselves by controlling the 'stronger' and 'favor
> endowing' male. The point of 'educating' the male is IMHO again, that they will
> treat us right. That indicates that we are victems of their behaviour. Is this
> a healthy way of preceiving interpersonal relationships?
I don't think it indicates that we are victims of their behaviour as much
as it indicates that we are *both* (men and women) victims of a *system
of behaviors* which has been passed down to us and which is dysfunctional
and unhealthy for *both* women and men. IMHO we will *only* change these
systems of behaviors through *mutual* education and a *shared*
determination to create a new system. Part of that has to involve
dialogue and discussion. AND, part of it has to involve *asserting*
ourselves and *demanding* our rights. You seem to be most enamored of
the latter -- and it is absolutely crucial -- but I don't think that it
alone can accomplish what you are seeking.
Jayne
