Gender trope discussion from last night

[Remember Me]

78. This is quite an impressive post

Truly. What economy of expression!

In just 33 words, 99Forever managed to cover all of the following excuses men have been using for eons to dismiss, marginalize, trivialize and otherwise ignore women when we voice our concerns:

I think you need to lighten up -- Otherwise known as the "whatsamatter, honey, cantcha take a joke?" defense. (Hint: it's offensive to tell ANYone to lighten up, but especially women when they're complaining about sexism.)

and quit shopping -- Quit LOOKING for trouble (subtext: it's all in your head).

for reasons to be "offended." -- There was nothing offensive there, except in your imagination.

This kind of nonsense -- Your concerns not only aren't important, they're not even serious.

does nothing but further divisions -- Play nice or we'll make your life even more miserable (if you can imagine that).

and minimize actual offensive terms, -- You do damage to those who have a LEGITIMATE concerns by pursuing this.