THE EDITOR, Sir:
In the Flair Magazine of Monday June 2, 203, I read an article contributed by Gleaner Staff Reporter Claude Mills, entitled 'The Matey Phenomenon'. I am somewhat disappointed with the contributions of Amina Blackwood-Meeks and to a lesser extent Dr. Glenda Simms.
I am not sure what era Dr. Simms is referring to when she says that men go to war and keep the women of their conquered foe as the spoils of war. I know that soldiers go to other countries and sometimes there are incidences of rape, but this is not the accepted norm and guilty parties are usually punished.
I also disagree with the way in which she refers to "men" generally. Not all men see women as property, some backward men are like that, but there are men who value and respect women, and may fight because of a woman but not over the woman. It is not always about ownership, it is about disrespect and ego.
What I find illogical is the view of Ms. Blackwood-Meeks. She opines that a woman who will have sex and sometimes babies, with a man who is married or otherwise involved; this woman is merely unkind or envious but the man has no notion of decency, morality, loyalty, integrity, and very low self-esteem. She also said that women have an open contempt for these men.
I would like to suggest to Ms. Blackwood-Meeks that it is actually the other way around. Most men are contemptuous of these cheap, easy "mattresses" who walk around using their bodies as sperm receptacles and baby factories, while doing serious damage to the effort of decent women who work hard to excel and lead, and be independent; changing the negative perception of women.
I am fully aware of the good work Ms. Blackwood-Meeks has done for women, but she should call a spade a spade. Cheap women are no better than cheap men.
I am, etc.,
NOEL MULLINGS
732 Willow Close
Greater Portmore
St. Catherine.
