I read a blog post by a friend of mine yesterday, “A Love Letter to the Men of the World,” that highlights how well-intentioned men are often blind to the ways in which we marginalize women and perpetuate sexism and male supremacy. Though the piece does not mention it, this article also reminds me of how sexism, racism, and all the other “isms” are related. One person (or group) forces others down to find a way up. Our children learn these lessons well, and on we go…
Dear Men,
Let me begin by thanking those of you who value me as your equal. Who see me as equally worthy (or unworthy) as men of your respect, consideration, and attention. Thank you to those of you who read women writers and a special thank you to those of you who read women writers intentionally, realizing that there is a still a power disparity and a difference in the way women and men are perceived in society.
I know most of you include yourselves as part of that paragraph above, and I know on some level most of you belong there. But some of you – sometimes unknowingly – do not see women as equal. I want to help you see the ways you do this so that you can love us better as your equals. Truly.
I encourage my friends to read this powerful “love” letter, and then read the subsequent “A Love Letter to the Women of the World” and share them with your friends, and subscribe to AndiLit.