Gender Disclosed; Now What?

The reason for this writing was in response to a feature article. I've also included a link to one that explains as well part of where I'm coming from. As a woman having grown up elsewhere, then having spent most of my adulthood in New York City, I've had feet in two worlds ever since, and am constantly reminded of the contrasts of radically different environments, both for myself, other women, and not least of all my child.

As a woman who's now also had exposure with 'the system' and how many women are treated by other women to whom they turn for help, I've also experienced the secondary 'sexism' they often unconsciously or deliberately exercise in determining outcomes for other women and their children, as well as on other levels forms of 'reverse-racism', and been the target of trans-generational anger for what my 'fore-mothers' may or may not have done to others.

Though my upbringing was different, I now consider myself a member of the human race and do not identify much with my exterior, which is among other things, unapologetically female. According to the models illustrated, I'm neither 'feminist' nor "womanist", and do not necessarily agree with the definitions offered. Something in between might be a better description, though what that name might be is not for me to determine at this time.

I deeply respect and understand the oppression generations of women have endured from all races in their respective different ways, including the bloodlines that preceded my existence: those of my own family. Much of the former continues today, here, and often to an even greater almost unimaginable degree in other parts of the world.

In addition to attending to our own 'backyards' and streets, we do not have time to either unconsciously or otherwise punish each other for what our parents, grandparents, and those before them, where we are, 'did to each other'. By engaging in this residual generational resentment, sexism, patriarchy, and 'cultural elitism'(for lack of a better term), we collectively and simultaneously underserve ourselves and other women and children who continue to suffer, many with no voices at all.

Unlike other campaigns or elections, where more often than not it seemed like any vote was for 'the lesser of two evils', that is not the case now. As the article included here states better than I can, and as well for the reasons connected to those comprehensively covered by noted contributors, some of whom are personal friends, I must cast my vote for a particular woman, for all women, and their children.

In closing, I continue as a friend, equal, supporter, and spokesperson for women and children, so that our sons and daughters will no longer live in environments of fear, anger, and violence, as soon as possible, like now.

Goodbye to All That (#2):

http://www.womensmediacenter.com/ex/020108.html

Dangerous Trends, Innovative Responses:

http://www.womensenews.org/article.cfm/dyn/aid/2906/

American Psychological Association, Violence in the Family report:

http://www.apa.org/pi/viol&fam.html