A couple of weeks ago TAG ran a story about a MP who insisted on saying "Madame le president" when the lady concerned had specifically asked to be called "Madame LA presidente". Now casual or routine sexism can be reported via a website called "Macholand.fr" (presumably there are English language versions). The site is full of what the organisers see as unnecessary sexism. In adverts mothers are usually seen as domestic goddesses, grandmothers as cuddly or in dating sites women are depicted as sexy and available ("French models also have great body work" - dating site using motoring metaphors). Competitors in the La Parisienne women's road race were presented with panty liners and detergent.
The site offers useful templates for sending to men in public life who offend women with insensitive remarks and lots of other links pointing out how stupid stereotyping language is used everywhere. Some will dismiss it as "political correctness gone mad", but it can be annoying.
http://macholand.fr
Val says we have just laughed as Malc who wrote the post wondered if he should say" do not worry your pretty little heads about it" I think he could see from my expresion it would not be a good idea!
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