Straight from dictionary.com
sex·ism
–noun
1. attitudes or behavior based on traditional stereotypes of sexual roles.
2. discrimination or devaluation based on a person's sex, as in restricted job opportunities; especially, such discrimination directed against women.
sex·ist
–adjective
1. pertaining to, involving, or fostering sexism: a sexist remark; sexist advertising.
Mr. Layton plans to further increase spending by, "...restoring cuts to women’s programs and organizations." This is sexist towards woman.
Mr. Layton plans to further increase spending by, "...restoring cuts to women’s programs and organizations." This is sexist towards woman.
(for some additonal insights of NDP position: http://www.trishmcauliffe.ca/post/layton-outlines-plan-to-advance-womens-equality)
Here's the logic:
1. sexism is discrimination or devaluation against a person based on their sex and attitudes/behaviors based on traditional stereotypes of sexual roles
2. Traditional stereotypes sadly in our society:
a) women are weaker then men and cannot 'do things on their own' they need help.
b) women are not as resourceful as men and therefore need the help of others to further their cause
c) women are not as smart as men and cannot logically convince others of their position.
3. These above negative and untrue stereotypes are being unintentionally reinforced by Mr. Layton telling women's group's: "you need our (NDP led government) investment in your programs"
4. this devalues women because it robs women within woman's groups the opportunity act out the opposite of the negative stereotypes. Here is how Jack Layton is devaluing woman and reinforcing terrible stereotypes in our society:
aa) saying women are too week to get their own funding from the free will and generous Canadian people, they are not strong enough and therefore need government help.
bb) women are not as resourceful as men therefore they are not able to articulate their cause, mobilize talent and spread a message to acquire their required donations. So because Mr. Layton sees this, he believe it's his job to fund women's groups: if he did not believe it, then why would he insult women by telling them their cause is in shortfall unless he (a leader who is a man) offers resources with funding. (how sexist Mr. Layton!!)
cc) If women were as smart as men, (Mr. Layton obviously thinks) then they would not need funding because they would be able to construct logical arguments that are well presented to appeal to a generous Canadian public and receive their funds (just like thousands of other organizations).
I do not approve of reinforcing sexist stereotypes by telling woman's groups they need gov. funding. I am for elimination of sexism and sexist attitudes. Once again we see the logical peril of manufacturing fairness.
Mr. Layton, stop the sexist attitudes towards women. Let's end sexism in our society and stop reinforcing traditional behaviors that 'women need funding by others to be a success'. This is sexist and Mr. Layton should be ashamed of himself.