In a display of retrograde rhetoric that might have been lifted from a 1950s manual on gender roles, a recent graduation speech at Benedictine College has left us wondering if we accidentally traveled back in time. Here’s why this speech oozes with sexism, complete with a snarky breakdown of its many outdated messages.
Reinforcing Gender Stereotypes: Because Who Needs Progress?
The speaker begins by addressing women with a heavy dose of condescension, essentially saying, “Congratulations, ladies, but remember, your real job is being a wife and mother.” By asserting that most women will find true fulfillment in domestic roles, he effectively tells half the graduating class that their degrees are just decorative. After all, they just spent 100k on their education. Throwing their career away to have babies just makes economic sense?
Professional Ambitions? How Quaint!
He magnanimously acknowledges that “some” women might have successful careers, but quickly reminds us that most will be happier as homemakers. It’s as if the feminist movement never happened. According to this speaker, the boardroom isn’t where a woman’s true calling lies—it’s in the nursery.
Anecdotes as Universal Truths: Because Everyone’s Life is Just Like Mine
Drawing from his personal life, he holds up his wife’s abandonment of career aspirations as the gold standard for all women. This one-size-fits-all narrative is not only patronizing but completely disregards the diverse ambitions and potentials of modern women.
A Patronizing Pat on the Head
Sure, the speaker congratulates the women on their achievements, but it’s clear he believes their real success lies in snagging a husband and popping out babies. It’s the verbal equivalent of a patronizing pat on the head, followed by a gentle nudge back to the kitchen.
Double Standards Ahoy!
Men, on the other hand, get a rousing call to leadership and societal impact. They’re encouraged to be unapologetically masculine and take on the world. Meanwhile, women are gently reminded to stay in their “traditional” lane. Because why should men and women be held to the same standards of ambition and achievement?
Time Travel Not Required
In a move that would make any time traveler blush, the speech carefully constructs a world where men are leaders and women are supporters. It’s not even subtle. If you ever wondered what the 21st century would look like with 1950s values, look no further.
This speech serves as a stark reminder that while we may have come a long way, some people are still stubbornly stuck in the past. Here’s hoping the class of 2024 can see through this nostalgic haze and chart their own paths—careers, families, and all.
