Don't Tell Me That Politics In Canada Is NOT An 'Old Boys Club'!
Not too much surprises me in Canadian politics, but I have to admit that I was taken aback by the shrill venom that has been targeted towards Ruth Ellen Brosseau, newly elected New Democrat MP from Quebec.
Never mind that a male conservative candidate from Alberta, Jim Hillyer, was absent and hiding out during the campaign. Not a word of criticism was heard about the 'guy' but the misogynist attacks on Mme. Brosseau have been deafening.
Canada's most prominent news agencies and aggregators, have carried stories concerning Ruth, non stop for days now. But don't look to find much mention about Mr. Hillyer's absence.
If I didn't know better, I would have to say that there exists in Canada, a double standard in our political process. If you happen to be young and female, God help you. The 'angry old white guy' crowd simply will not tolerate a bright young woman venturing into the old boys club that is Parliament in Canada.
-Brian Topp
Never mind that a male conservative candidate from Alberta, Jim Hillyer, was absent and hiding out during the campaign. Not a word of criticism was heard about the 'guy' but the misogynist attacks on Mme. Brosseau have been deafening.
Canada's most prominent news agencies and aggregators, have carried stories concerning Ruth, non stop for days now. But don't look to find much mention about Mr. Hillyer's absence.
If I didn't know better, I would have to say that there exists in Canada, a double standard in our political process. If you happen to be young and female, God help you. The 'angry old white guy' crowd simply will not tolerate a bright young woman venturing into the old boys club that is Parliament in Canada.
-Brian Topp
Your outrage is welcome, but all anyone has to do is look at the comments on enough news stories that touch on womens’ reproductive rights, pay equity, divorce, sexual assault, etc., to understand why, in 2011, they still pull this shit. It’s all about the math.
Posted by
Unknown |
12:38 pm, May 07, 2011
There is a difference. Brosseau didn't campaign because she knew she couldn't win. Hillyer didn't campaign because he knew he couldn't lose.
One would think there would be a greater ethical imperative to get out and meet the voters if you know your going to be their MP and a greater amount of criticism from the media if you don't.
Posted by
rww |
4:44 pm, May 07, 2011