L.A. Times article from Gloria Steinem on Sarah Palin

What a turn of events! Palin for vice president? Really, McCain? Who do you think you are fooling? Are we supposed to believe that you, or the Republican party for that matter, has had a change of heart and now believes in women's equality? What a thinly veiled stunt!

And if I hear one more person tell me that now Hillary voters have someone to throw their support behind, I'm gonna...I don't even know what! What a joke! Do people actually believe that Pro-Choice, Pro-Woman, Feminist fighters for equality are actually going to be duped into believing that Palin is a legitimate alternative? Excuse me, but one woman does not equal another--Hillary Clinton and Sara Palin could not be further apart on issues. I guess women really are interchangeable in the minds of Republican strategists!

Here is a link to a great article in the L.A. Times by Gloria Steinem-- "Palin--wrong woman, wrong message"

Media, Girls, and what to do!

Forever in the quest of building my repertoire of information I recently discovered that Jean Killbourne (of the Killing Us Softly films) , along with Diane Levin, has a new book coming out. And ever so timely! So Sexy So Soon: The New Sexualized Childhood and What Parents Can Do to Protect Their Kids looks great. And while it is not out until August 5th, Jean Killbourne is a resource I trust. I've already pre-ordered my copy.

In a related note, I just came across this organization--"Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood" Diane Levin is on their Steering Committee and their founder, Susan Linn has a new book entitled The Case for Make Believe: Saving Play in a Commercialized World Check them out!

Finally, to encourage play and make-believe, the last resource I'll share for now is Sarah's Silks. My cousin just started working for them and loves her job. Sarah's Silks are primarily made by women working from home in Sonoma County, California. The idea behind Sarah's Silks is to allow children the freedom to create their own worlds, enjoy and expand their imaginations, and to "capture the magical soul that lives in young children." So we can combat the bombardment while encouraging our children's imaginations and supporting women's work! Sounds like a win, win...win!

Yummy Dummy

I happened upon these amazing girls this morning at the Davis Farmers' Market (in California). These seven girls created, and manage, their own chocolate company, Yummy Dummy. They are remarkable... they created a company, learned to work together, and personally design, create and sell their product. But most impressively, they also live a socially conscious life, choosing organizations and efforts to which they donate 10% of their proceeds. In a sea of corporatized business and the rapidly shrinking local merchant, Yummy Dummy was a sight for sore eyes.

And...after partaking in the sweet wonder of their dark chocolate, marshmallow, and almond bar...I must say a very rewarding company to support!!

the passing of Barbara Seaman

Veteran Feminists of America Announcement

February 27, 2008

Remembering Barbara Seaman

We are sad to report that Barbara Seaman, founder of the National Women's Health Network, noted feminist, women's health activist, and author, died this morning. Seaman's life and work leave much to be celebrated, as she was a tireless advocate for informed consent and exposing information on hormonal medications, including publication of the breakthrough 1969 book "The Doctors' Case against the Pill," which led to Congressional hearings on oral contraception and ultimately to the first safety warning on the drug.

Barbara's Memorial Service will take place on Thursday March 6th, 2008 at the Riverside Memorial Chapel. 180 West 76th St NYC at 5:30pm.

Hillary Clinton--"You Have to Dare to Compete"

Go Hillary!

Check out Hillary Speaks for Me!

I "Heart" Consensual Sex

Join California NOW's new campaign!!

On their website, they explain "Here’s our definition of consent: To actively and willingly participate in any given activity, without coercion or force. Consent is a powerful way to say, 'This is my body and I have the right to decide with whom, how, where and when I choose to have sex.'...

So, join our "Sex Drive" to bring our consensual sex campaign to college students throughout the state."