I agree the Willow mural does not portray the ideals of a society in which I would like to live. The mural objectifies women as things to be possessed and handled, rather than equal members of society. This objectification of women is common in our society, particularly in the media, but it is not harmless. We as human beings are greatly influenced by the visual stimuli we receive. It has been shown that if children observe violent video games or television, they tend to act more violently. Our input influences our output. What we allow ourselves to observe is frequently revealed in how we ourselves behave, speak, think or feel.

When women are portrayed as objects to be possessed or controlled, society gets the message. In the back of individuals’ minds, their perception of women changes, and those perceptions can result in violence against women.

In her column, “Hypocrisy surrounds mural objections,” (Dec.10) Ayrel Clark claimed women were being hypocritical to complain about the mural because women portray men negatively too. Yes, women do objectify men, but two wrongs have never made a right. I challenge women to consider their own stereotypes of men, because this issue, ultimately, is not about women. It is about moving towards a society that values all people.

Secondly, I agree with the men in the Schaefer House, because they should have been approached before the women took the issue to the Department of Residence. The ideal first step would have been to approach the house’s RA with the concerns. The RA then could have taken up the issue with his residents, and the two groups would have the opportunity to discuss the issue non-confrontationally.

Very little change occurs if the administration orders Schaefer House to remove the mural. However, if they participated in an open dialogue (not a debate or argument), they might have the understanding of the issue changed. Activism’s goal is not merely to make the surface look prettier, but to change attitudes, behaviors and socialized habits. Ordering Schaefer House to remove the mural does not offer that opportunity for change.

Jennifer Leman

Senior

Family and Consumer Sciences Education