In a world where so many have fought (and are still fighting!) for equality, I wonder sometimes if the jokes said in the break room or at the bar are really jokes, or if they are in actuality reflections of our inner prejudices. At work, I am the only gal at the lunch table in a group of guys, so I've heard every "women do the weirdest things" comment. But are the things anyone does really that weird, or are they just misunderstood? Since women and men really do seem to operate on different wavelengths, I'm thinking it's more a question of priority than propriety. And if the priorities are not the same between men and women, it would be hard for one to understand why something is such a big deal to the other.
This is not to say that women are innocent of sexist remarks. There is, however, the fact that most famous comedians are men, and so they get a leg up in the joke department. With a lack of Tina Fey's on the air, how is it that a girl can get a word in edgewise?
We've all been told that stereotypes are based on truth, and I can see the point. The issue seems to come, however, when those casual comments are taken as fact. It may only be subconsciously, but when the joke is believed, harm can be done. A barrier is reinforced that stalls progress. And while women and other cultural groups are making great headway, it will be hard to have complete equality until these prejudices are dealt with.
Guys and gals, what do you think? Can equality be achieved while the casual sexist/racist joke exists? Or is it a release that shouldn't be taken too seriously?
(Photo from Soda Head)
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