We are Women, Hear Us Vote
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We are Women, Hear Us Vote

The intense controversy surrounding women in politics this election makes it difficult to tell whether this election is about degrading women or empowering them.

Clinton’s historic run for candidacy is constantly underscored by Trump’s comments that openly target marginalized groups.

Dr. Jennifer Collins, professor of political science, said while it may be easy to dismiss these instances as empty words or ‘locker room talk,’ they damage public discourse.

“The tone that is set by our leaders makes a difference.  I think it does matter what leaders say, and what we hear them say, and how they say it because that does set the tone for the rest of the country,” Collins said.

Sparked in part by these comments, this election has brought issues which typically get overlooked into the forefront of the public’s attention.

Lauren Jenquin, senior arts management major and executive coordinator at the Women’s Resource Center, said one good thing this election has done is create a space for people to discuss topics like rape-culture and assault.

“I’m worried that after someone gets into office these things are just going to be put back on the wayside,” Jenquin said.

Lyn Ciurro, senior communication sciences and disorders major and programming liaison for the Women’s Resource Center, is also worried that these topics won’t be as important post-election.

“I’m hoping the momentum that’s started during this and during the debates just keeps on going,” Ciurro said.

While this space for discussion is positive, other discussion surrounding Clinton may not be.

“A lot of people talk about what Hillary Clinton was wearing or how she looked verses her policies,” Jenquin said.

While superficial evaluation of Clinton detracts attention from her policies, it is not atypical.

Misty Pease, senior philosophy major and volunteer coordinator at the Women’s Resource Center, said, “Even though we do have women in politics now, they don’t take them seriously.”

 

Olivia DeValk

Reporter

olivia.c.devalk@uwsp.edu

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