Men should act in a responsible manner
published: Tuesday | August 17, 2004

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE ISSUE of the attire of some young women in this society, as has been raised by the Rev. Herro Blair, is one which has relevance from a societal standpoint. It seems to me that while young women are free to dress as they please, they should also understand that at the centre of every demoractically based freedom is the issue of respect and responsibility on the part of the holder of that freedom.

However, one of the problems that arises is: What is considered lewd or sexually suggestive attire? For one person it might be a body hugging full length gown while for another it might be any dress which falls above the knees. It seems to me that what Rev. Blair is extolling is that the attire of young women in this society should be molded against the likes and dislikes of the most depraved in society. Taken to its logical conclusion, such a position would only serve to empower individuals who fall in this category. The onus should be upon all men in this society to act in a responsible manner no matter how a member of the female gender happens to be attired at a particular point in time.

Moreover, it seems to me that a rapist will carry out such acts no matter what a member of the opposite sex is wearing. Such an individual has a mental problem that requires professional help. The bottom line is that both issues, scantily dressed women and rape, are two mutually exclusive issues and as such should be addressed separately.

I am, etc.,

PATRICK A. GALLIMORE

pagalley@hotmail.com

Kingston