“I’m more of a ‘post-feminist’ feminist” the Lightly Bible Thumping Blonde to my left explained as we watched the U.S. Men’s Beach Volleyball team getting all they could handle from the Germans.
She made this quizzical comment in response to her Mostly Conversationally Challenged Companion’s complaint that “If the women play in bikinis, at least the men could play shirtless.”
Sometimes I go to bars seeking this type of provocative conversation, sometimes I just want to watch the game or read a newspaper or smoke a cigar, and sometimes I wouldn’t mind some company for the rest of the night. Last night might have been a mélange of all of those desires, but mostly it was about watching the game. SBTB had made it clear, however, that all options were available.
“What does that mean – a ‘post-feminist’ feminist?” I asked, knowing full well that her answer might eliminate the option directly involving her for the evening.
“It means that I am all about equality, but I am not going to care that the women play in bikinis and the men in shorts and shirts.”
(Mouth, this is Central Command. Steady. You are not the crusader for all things righteous. You are instructed to change subject; alter conversational trajectory and return to Ready Mode.)
“Oh my God, did you catch the angle on that shot?”
“I just don’t understand the big deal. Sex sells. Those women just need to relax and enjoy it.”
(Mouth, this is Central Command. You are instructed to Ignore, Ignore, Ignore. Occupy pie-hole with drink. Response is not permitted. Threat Level is Elevated, but Situation still manageable.)
“If feminists want something to be upset about, we should be upset about how Title IX paints women as victims like affirmative action does for minorities.”
(Mouth, this Central Command. Situation is no longer tenable for eventual landing. You have a green light for proportional response. Fire at will)
“If you really believed in equality, you would understand that the objectification of women is patently against the Olympic ideal. Wearing bikini’s serves no useful athletic purpose. If skin tight and revealing clothes made you play volleyball better, then the men would be outfitted in Lycra bodysuits if it would help them win. This is a matter of sexualization, and that ain’t equality.
“And I would be happy to discuss the virtues of Title IX, Victimization, Minorities, and the implied subtext of your “relax and enjoy it” comment, but I have an early morning and must get some sleep. Ladies, have a good evening.”
p.s. Thanks to all of you who wandered over from DC Blogs. I would encourage you consider entering the Worst Date Ever Blog Contest we are hosting. Turn a bad date into free dinner and good booze – clearly a win win.
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