philosophies

"in my heart, i think a woman has two choices: either she's a feminist or a masochist" --gloria steinem

"the main dangers in this life are the people who want to change everything . . . or nothing." --lady nancy astor

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

girl votes for woman, feels good

I Voted!

i just voted for the first viable female presidential candidate ever. it was more “wow” than i expected, especially because i’m also thrilled at the prospect of obama. but personally, i had to vote hillary. and it’s not JUST because she’s a woman, because i would never vote for a republican female candidate (as if we’d ever see that anyway), but i support most of her policies and think backlash against her is like backlash against feminism—media constructed and then picked up by the masses without much critical thought or engagement. if you oppose her because of foreign policy issues, i “sort of” understand. if you think she’s a little flip-floppy, whatever. her voting record is relatively consistent (relative to politicians). her health plan makes sense. she has a withdrawal plan for the war. she has experience. she’s pro-choice. she’s feminist. AND she’s a woman.

if she wins, it will be a tougher road for the democrats, because sexism is still socially accepted. if obama wins, it will also be tough, but he generates more excitement and will increase liberal voting. thankfully, all the republicans suck (as usual), but mccain has draw and it looks like he’ll be the one to beat. maybe it’s the activist in me or maybe it’s because i just watched iron-jawed angels for the millionth time (i show it in my Intro to Women’s Studies classes every semester), but i know that if everyone votes, particularly young people, women, and minorities—we will not have to suffer another four years of Republican rule. whether progressive woman or progressive man—we need progress, we need change, and we really, really need a revolution. if you haven’t voted yet—go!! whether you plan to vote obama or clinton, you must vote. and if you plan to vote huckabee, we can't possibly be friends. sorry.

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