A mind under this hat

Gillard leading the way…

I just thought I’d comment on the amazing performance we have seen from some of the most senior women in the party over the last couple of days!

Starting with Q and A- for those of you who watch the program you have witnessed the the appalling way Kate Ellis was treated on the panel. Questions were asked about feminism and despite being the only woman on the panel she was given little opportunity to respond. Most alarmingly, Tanner and Pyne (although the behaviour of the latter is unsurprising) joined together and spoke over Kate when she was giving a particularly articulate response.

I have never been a fan of autonomy and welcome men’s contribution to the feminist debate- but in that instance the need for autonomy in some instances became apparent. This realisation was especially evident when that dweeby little Liberal boy in the audience started lecturing Kate on what feminism is! How dare a little Abbott-loving boy lecture one of the most impressive young women in the country about the meaning of feminism!

Let women speak on women’s issues!

After reflecting on the program, I realised the importance of making sure that as young women we are the ones leading the feminist debate. While men are welcome to contribute, it is imperative that our voices are given priority!

Today the PM’s speech demonstrated absolutely that the feminist cause is more relevant than ever. It is perhaps the most gallant and brave display of a woman standing up for herself that I have ever seen.

Not only was the PM’s speech delivered with eloquence and passion, it reinforced the continued relevance of the feminist cause in a way that was truly unforgettable.

For the first time in my political memory we saw a Prime Minister who was not afraid to say that she was offended by the vile anti-women comments that have plagued the political discourse in this country for too long.

Just as Gillard said today, the women of this country deserve more from the alternative PM and the alternative government of this country.

Sometimes the ‘M’ word (misogyny) is a bit scary and we shy away from identifying misogyny when we see it in fear of being painted as a ‘crazy feminist’. One of the many lessons I learnt today was to call people out on it when we identify it and to speak up!

Today Gillard took the lead in this regard- and as young members of the ALP I know we will all be proud to follow!