Is Sexism Sin?

As an author of a book about the double standards that women face, my attention recently turned to the descriptions and reactions of Arizona Governor Janet Brewer’s long silence during a debate.

Describing it as the “longest 16 seconds of my life”, Brewer seems to recognize the “freeze” as embarrassing. Questions posed to her during the press conference after the debate and subsequent media interviews are demonstrative of the intense scrutiny men and women in power experience. Although I do believe that women cannot fly below the radar and that her faults are in high definition (chapter headings of my book), the double standard cannot be blamed for illuminating this gaffe. However, stereotypes did come into play with some perceptions and reactions.

journalists’ descriptions ranged objectively from “painful pause” to “loss for words”; and subjectively included conclusions such as “meltdown” or “train wreck”. Based on my review of the video, I believe statements suggesting that Brewer “drew a blank” are closer to what actually happened. Still, professional writers’ depictions were bland compared to the colorful interpretations made by others.

The general public’s comments to articles about the situation also varied. Responses from “she’s human” to declaring her “dumb” appeared to mirror political ideology. Some even admitted their biases with those not supporting Brewer being harsher than those who do. Most distressing though were the sexist laden remarks like calling her an “airhead”, a “bimbo” and questioning whether she was a “true blonde”.

Regrettably, based on what I’ve observed relative to the double standard, Brewer can expect ridicule to increase in the aftermath of this unfortunate experience. Highlighted in my book are the tendencies for women’s words being “fair game to kill” (in this case lack of words). It is not uncommon for a woman’s misstep to be repeated over and over again. Additionally, when women exhibit nervousness, this too becomes difficult to live down. As adults holding powerful positions, women leaders have to expect to be held as accountable as anyone else, but shouldn’t they be treated like everyone else?

From reporter to common citizen, the only way we can eliminate double standards is to examine ourselves about what we think and how we react - especially when offering critique. Ask yourself this question before weighing in on another’s misfortune: “Would I say it the same way if I were speaking about someone of my own gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, or religion?” In short, one of the two great commandments (paraphrased) that we should treat others as we wish to be treated certainly applies here.

It helps to concentrate on what a person did instead of who they happen to be.
Remember, constructive criticism is designed to improve performance and build another person up; “piling on” epithets is not. And yes, I think sexism is sin.