The Shaming of Eve
s*xual Subjugation of Women
Women have been subjugated and oppressed throughout history. We are told to deny our desires and feelings, as they are wrong or shameful. We are made to feel dirty or wrong for thinking the way we do. This "double standard" still exists.
Women were once considered chattel or property. We were the property of our father. Then, ownership was transferred to our husband at marriage. Historically, her value was placed on her virginity. If it was intact, she could get a higher bride price for her father. If she was not a virgin, her value went down and the prospective husband was not required to pay as much to the bride’s father. She was considered soiled, impure, damaged goods.
The USA was founded with a puritanical Judeo-Christian belief system. Yes, there still exists the belief of the patriarchal hierarchy, men have the power, women are second class citizens. Biblically, Eve was blamed for for the downfall of mankind and our expulsion from the Garden of Eden. But Adam ate the apple, as well. Yet, women are seen as a deceiver or temptress of man.
So, when a woman dares step out of line, by owning her sexuality and asserting her power as a human being, the reaction can be very negative. Derogatory or shaming words are meant to put a woman in her place. To shut her down and silence her.
But, when a man expresses his desires, he is seen as being a healthy human being owning his own power and sexuality.
Women are beautiful, powerful and s*xual beings. We must stand up and be proud of who we are. Enough of the double standard and staying quietly in our place.
A strong woman can be frightening or threatening to some men. If a man is strong and powerful, he is praised as a capable leader. If a woman acts the same way, she is seen as a b*tch. She may be called a lesbian, dyke or any number of derogatory words.
All the negative reactions, to a woman asserting her power, are meant to put her back in her place.
As women, we must be proud of who we are. Assert you rights as a human being. We are not inferior, less than or second class citizens. Take your place as an equal.