A little while ago, I was talking to my cousin when he said something to me about “When you have children.” I said “I’m not having children.” He was shocked, and said “Because you can’t, or because you don’t want to?” I honestly don’t understand why he was so shocked, because I had told him … Continue reading Being childfree is not an “interesting debate”
Tag: sexism
Waiting on my emperor
If a man has managed to make it to the age of 25 or 30 or 35 without me cooking for him, why on earth would I suddenly be responsible for his nourishment? I have a Masters degree, and I work- and I... don't pay bills? Is my money not good enough for bill paying because I’m a woman?
“You take it too far”
It’s not uncommon for people who have never experienced systemic, institutionalized oppression of a certain type to accuse those who have, and identify it, as being “too sensitive” or “taking it too far.” For people who have never been on the receiving end of systematic discrimination, or for people who are, but for some reason, … Continue reading “You take it too far”
When culture fails
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a widespread phenomenon. In the popular imagination, it’s often associated with Islam, or Africa, even though they both Islam and Africa are varied and diverse. While it is true that FGM is practiced in 29 out of 54 African countries, it also takes place in Asia, the Middle East, and … Continue reading When culture fails
Why the racist, sexist backlash against Cecile Kyenge is a good thing
In April, Cecile Kyenge was appointed minister of integration by Italy’s prime minister, Enrico Letta. She is the first black person to serve in Italy’s cabinet, and has lived in the country for the past 30 years after moving to Italy to study medicine at the age of 18. An ophthalmologist by trade, she has … Continue reading Why the racist, sexist backlash against Cecile Kyenge is a good thing
Doreen Akiyo Yomoah 