The Wheel's Still in Spin
I am very happy about the results of the election on November 4th that have given me hopes for the future of this country. Even more so, I am pleased that the voice of our generation, America's youth, has spoken and has been heard. Not only have we managed to rid ourselves of the Republican party but we have elected a non-white, young, and international gentleman to represent the American people and bring about much needed change. It is truly an epic moment. There is still much to do to get this country on the right track and Obama has yet to prove himself but I believe that things will slowly, but surely, improve. Thank you to all who voted.
That being said, I would like to turn my attention to other important matters - the representation of women in this election. Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin have been scrutinized by the media, which has reinforced stereotypes of women. Clinton is "the bitch" and Palin is "the diva" or "ditz". It is sad that this is what has come out of the most prominent leadership positions women have had in U.S history.
To be honest, I wanted Hillary to win over Obama because, as she has mentioned herself, she was the best-qualified candidate. But she did not win because of her personality while Obama won on his ability to charm a crowd, which I think is a ridiculous way to determine who should run for President. Still, people did stand up for her - I particularly love the "Bitch is the New Black" skit by Tina Fey. Check it out.
To follow up the intelligent, strong-willed Clinton was dunce and beauty queen Palin. What an insult to all women, particularly Clinton. Again, there is great SNL skit that I think shows how she must've felt as well as exhibiting the role sexism has played in this election. But back to Palin - what was the Republican party thinking? She is in no way qualified to be Vice President and her actions to capitalize on her good looks by constantly winking and being flirty were outrageous. Because of her, women will now have to suffer overcoming all the stereotypes she has further strengthened in this election. An article in New York Magazine sums up Palin's influence quite well: "By stepping into the spotlight unprepared, Palin reinforced some of the most damaging and sexist ideas of all: that women are undisciplined in their thinking; that we are distracted by domestic concerns or frivolous pursuits like shopping; that we are not smart enough, or not serious enough, for the important jobs." In fact, you should read the whole article because it is excellent.
I hate to be a Debbie Downer, but I think it is important to bring up the good and the bad of this election since it gives insight into our populations' opinions, concerns, and ideals. I am happy that as Americans we were able to overcome one barrier but there are many more to diminish. I think Clinton was unfairly judged as well as Palin (though she deserved 90% of it). It is time for women to hold more leadership positions and to stop scrutinizing them based on their looks and other miscellaneous qualities.
Wow. So that wasn't what you were expecting, huh? Well, to liven this entry a bit more here are so more hilarious skits by Fey as Palin: Couric Interview; VP Debate; Bush endorsement.
I will post again soon with my traditional form of blogging. Thanks for reading!