Column: Rashida Tlaib is the strong female political presence we need
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib is not only a strong political presence, she is a strong female presence. This undoubtedly causes tension among her fellow male politicians.
Tlaib received internet backlash for using profanity in a speech regarding President Donald Trump. Why are women in politics condemned for the same behaviors for which men are praised?
Male politicians who use profanity, racist or hateful language are often viewed as strong, fearless, a real man who gets the job done. Why, when female politicians use any form of profanity, are viewers so shaken?
When male politicians spew hateful and ignorant rhetoric, profanity, or racial slurs, many Americans pay no mind. However, when a female politician, no matter how uplifting and powerful her rhetoric or number of humanitarian accomplishments, uses any profanity, she is condemned. Her efforts are discounted and she is criticized as hateful or rude.
Tlaib is the first Muslim woman to serve in Congress, if that weren’t enough, she stands undefeated against her opponents in her district, constantly working for the quality of life in Michigan. Tlaib has worked tirelessly against racism, fought for those impoverished and unemployed, as well as for benefits and worker’s rights. Tlaib is currently advocating a “Justice for All” Civil Rights Act, which will create opportunities for individuals discriminated against across multiple platforms.
Tlaib has already made history in numerous ways for minorities and women. I hope that Tlaib continues breaking political gender molds, so that women after her may be unafraid to make changes in a so called man’s world.
Columns written by editors and writers of Pacer Times reflect the opinion of that writer. Letters to the editor may be emailed to Editor-in-Chief Cecilia Maddox at cmy@usca.edu, and will be published at the editorial staff’s discretion.
