General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Let's say that DU does take a hard line against Misogyny. [View all]LWolf
(46,179 posts)If an elected Democrat is a misogynist, support of misogyny will be allowed. Because party always trumps issues, and it always has.
Part of the transition from an "underground" self-describing as "left-wing" to a more mainstream group, with a neo-liberal "D" in the WH, includes embracing the Democratic Administration's more centrist and center-right profile. That automatically puts social and economic justice in the shadows, and often all the way under the bus.
I don't really see any way around that, because of the partisan nature of the site.
I've seen that the site owners tread a thin line, attempting to keep discussion as open as possible while adhering to their partisan intent. I respect that.
I'd like to see the board be as open as possible, as well. The more narrow the discussion becomes, the more of an echo-chamber, the more pointless. Maintaining open discussion with civility is a really big challenge on an anonymous board. Anonymity allows people to express themselves more freely. It also allows them to leave good manners and basic civility behind. I think a large part of the problem would be solved if jury members held posters to a higher standard of civility.
If racism, sexism including misogyny, agism, classism, and religious bigotry are not "liberal" or "left" (or whatever DU is currently calling itself) principles, are not Democratic principles, then posters shouldn't be displaying them and should be shut down.
What's more important? That the big tent include racists, misogynists, agists, classists, and religious bigots so that we can garner more votes and "win," or that we hold ourselves, whether as partisans or liberals, to higher standards?
As a matter of fact, if bigotry is not "liberal," should we be displaying political bigotry? Should we not be making our political points with civility, rather than hatred, juvenile name calling, and mindlessly repeating "talking points" heard elsewhere?