In its most beneficial form, populism is a grassroots phenomenon, creating political movements that are of, by, and for the people. But populism has a dark side, as well.
Difference enriches us and makes the world — and our country — a more interesting, vibrant, compassionate place. The United States, indeed, is built on that. We are also a nation that holds dear the concept of free speech — but threats and hateful words, whether violent or rhetorical, go beyond that concept. Free speech is a responsibility as much as a right.
Christine Canning-Wilson says this is Massachusetts, where Republicans aren’t as hardcore as they are elsewhere. “My social values are very left. I’m very people-oriented. People are people; a soul is a soul.”
Shouldn’t we all just accept the gender we were born with? “Sexual orientation is who you go to bed with. Gender identity is who you go to bed as.”
-- Client at gender clinic at Children’s Hospital in Boston
In the 21st century, we have the opportunity to break out of gendered limitations and move on to a better personhood. Women can bring their listening and cooperative values to men, and men can bring their courage and confidence to women.
I like being called a lesbian. “Lesbian” sounds so cool, so special, and so different that I choose it for myself. Because I am different, and because words matter.
