How do you, women, combat sexism in your everyday life?

Question

What about with a friend or partner? Is there something specific you say? Do you let sexism just kind of slide because that's the way things are? Do you have any stories about a time (or many) when you stood up to sexism from someone in your life?

Answer 1

It depends on the person and the situation. If it is a minor thing like an old man calling me darlin' I usually ignore it. If it is something more serious like trying to make a purchase or issues in the workplace I will typically say something in a calm and professional manner. If that doesn't work I will go up the chain of command. Every day I try to present myself as an intelligent, confident person. I think when you have respect for yourself you get more respect from others. One of my favorite stories though of sexual harassment happened about 10 years ago. I had just started dating my husband. He went with me to get my annual emissions test for my car. I was in the drivers seat and the car was registered in my name. The young man found a problem with the car and went to my husband to explain it to him. I interrupted and told the man that it was my car and he needed to speak to me about the issue. He completely blew me off and told me to read the paper or ask my boyfriend about it and walked away. My husband really didn't say anything because he knew even then that I could handle myself. The next morning I called the supervisor of the program (who just happened to be a woman). She had received other complaints about the test site. Long story short, I got the young man fired.

Answer 2

I am a lesbian who stands up for the rights of all women. I actively participate in my local government, community service organizations, and political organizations to try to make a difference. I would encourage all men and women who believe in justice, equality and peace to join the women in your area who are working so hard to make that happen.

Answer 3

I dont want to call it combat,its more like tolerate but if it is just blatant then I will be vocal.To be honest I have proved that I can pull my weight,and basically am respected as well as I respect

Answer 4

My husband is not at all sexist......I wouldn't be with him otherwise

I dealt with alot of sexual harrassment in the work force...I handled it differently with each person

Answer 5

Tell them about Sexual Harrassement and then sue them if they don't listen and it costs you your job. Stand up to them! Equal rights and equal pay are good, no glass ceiling! don't be a stripper and do drugs either!

Answer 6

I generally just say, "Hey, that's really sexist. Don't do that again." and let them know about the perils of sexual harassment.