There was one of those threads last night on the forum, now fortunately removed. A few of the comments about women, and trying to justify these as ‘jokes’ about what to do to women, were particularly unpleasant in the end. Unfortunately they were nothing new, and I’ve heard them before on hear, and as a result I’m just going to take some time out from this forum.
I’ve posted this for a few reasons. Not to repeat the comments which were said, (nor to have a ‘flounce’ 😉 ), but firstly to say thanks to a few people. Emsz (especially for having the guts to say it as it is), CG, TJ, Elf, Ernie, and CaptainFlashHeart (who apparently came in at the end). Thanks guys and girls for the support and for speaking out. Secondly to say thanks to the moderators of STW (most of whom I know are good guys anyway!) – the thread was removed really quickly, despite the late hour. You guys have a thankless task most of the time, so just to let you know that your intervention is much appreciated.
And also a bit of an explanation as to why I’ve now had enough. Last night’s thread was a particularly bad example, but there is a pervasive sexism that runs through STW. It’s only from a minority (and most of you guys and girls are great) but it is a constant drip, drip, drip of minor issues. For example, just over the last few days there’s been some pretty sexist responses to a guy who asked about kissing his friend, and several threads that only refer to women based on how they look.
The moderators have been great and are constantly closing down on these threads, but its a bit like trying to control a pernacious weed, new threads just continually sprout up. And I am tired of coming across them. Yes, I could challenge some of the posters, but having previously had a ‘it’s her time of the month’ response, I’m increasingly reluctant to do so.
I rarely walk away from things I that I think are discriminatory, as I think the only way to address them is to speak out. But I come on here for some time out, to laugh, have an occassional rant, and pick up answers to every possible question under the sun 🙂 But guys, please can we stop with the sexism? It’s not ‘lads banter’, and it’s not neccessary. It’s still possible to have fun, banter, and humour without objectifying women.
Anyway, I have said enough. And as above, my thanks to those who have spoken out and supported me and emsz last night, and to the mod’s closing inappropriate threads down.
Have fun peeps, and remember to ride your bikes now and again 🙂
Edit – and as per usual I still manage to post on the wrong forum!