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Sexist Humor

© Nancy Coulter

I've recently become involved with a debate about one of the web sites that I maintain for a women's organization. Apparently some of the women are upset because the site includes humor which could be viewed as "male bashing."

Of course, there is a nice little disclaimer at the top noting that this section of the site is strictly for laughs and not to be taken seriously. The main reason it was created was because many of the women were tired of the men doing all of the bashing (of us women). We wanted our turn. So, male jokes were collect and the page was made.

It's filled with stuff like "Penis Tax" and "Rules to be a Man". Things that many people have gotten from mass e-mails which we just deicded to collect onto one page. It has provided many chuckles to many a downhearted female, and even to the sympathizing male.

So why am I being asked to get rid of it? Because some women see it as "stepping down" to the men's level of sexist women bashing. Which I guess is true, if you see it that way.

Another reason is many women see it as just adding to the oppression that we already have to deal with on a daily basis. In their mind, it's bad enough that we are oppressed by men, but to be oppressed by another woman is like being stabbed in the back. That's not the case.

I see it as a way to have fun. It adds a little humor to the day. It gives you something to laugh about after you read a page filled with deadly information about breast cancer and yearly visits to the OB/Gyn. Our world is filled with enough darkness that it's nice to sometimes just laugh.

It has often been said that one of the best talents is being able to laugh at yourself. Oh, how true that its.

Being a woman in the '90s isn't the easiest thing in the world. We have enough seriousness jammed down our throats. Can't we throw some back out and laugh a little?

A few links to tickle your funny bone...

The Women's Room: People With Penises

The Men's Room: Shits and Giggles

Men Vs. Women Humor

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