Culturally sensitive sexism
In these days of reconciliation, it seems that being a sexist prick is no longer exclusively the privilege of crusty old white guys. According to the news this morning, aboriginal academics are calling for a book to be pulped because it encourages girls to play the didgeridoo. Says Mark Rose, general manager of the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association:
"I reckon it's the equivalent of encouraging someone to play with razor blades. I would say pulp it."
2 comments:
The irony is that the Daring Book for Girls is a real let-down compared to its look-alike, the Dangerous Book for Boys. The boys' version encourages youngsters to hunt, skin, and cook their own small animal. The girls' version encourages them to bake cookies.
If I had a child, of either gender, I'd definitely rather give them the Dangerous Book than the Daring Book.
But I love didgeridoo sounds, wish I could play, and hope more people take it up.
Dude - there's an award for you at my place as you probably already know. Come and get it.
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