Barbara Boxer's War on Civility and the Rights of Women

Barbara Boxer (D-CA) struck a blow against civility and the rights of women in her recent confrontation with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice who was before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, discussing the war in Iraq. During the discussion, the Senator challenged the Secretary of State's sense of empathy by implying that since Ms. Rice has no children of her own, she couldn't understand the pain other families are experiencing who are sacrificing for the war.

This type of statement was used for decades by certain groups to oppress other groups. Many men use to argue that women couldn't succeed in business because they didn't understand the male dominated world. Barbara Boxer would have rightly said that such a proposition is ridiculous, but she seems to be using the exact same logic now. I feel sorry for young women who might hear her quote and be confused by the messages she is sending.

Also, the tone of the discussion was incredibly rude. Secretary Rice is one of the highest ranking officials in the US government and there was a time when individuals honored such offices, even if they didn't particularly like the person. This seems to be something that Senator Boxer has forgotten.

I believe that any human who has experienced the lost of a friend or loved one, which I'm sure the Secretary (like the rest of us) falls in that category, can understand the idea of lost and it is arrogant for anyone to question another person's sense of compassion based on whether they are parents.

The Senator has embraced some old approaches that we are all gladly did away with years ago in her use of discriminating remarks. Meanwhile she has abandoned one idea that I hope we always adhere to -- good old fashion manners. It is my hope she turns these around and begins by apologizing to the Secretary and to the many people who had to hear and see her inappropriate behavior.