Mike Brown

If we require all members of marginalized groups to be calm when discussing their oppression, we will never make real progress.

As members of majority groups, we have the responsibility to figure out what they’re trying to tell us with their anger, so we can work on it. It’s hard to do. But it’s important. Sadly I didn’t see any of that last night.

I’m very disappointed. I really thought we were better at this. But oh well - it’s a new day! We can try again.

I’m still angry. Let’s be clear about that. The name is still exclusionary (and as majority group members, you don’t get to argue with that).

Things that are completely irrelevant here include: * whether you personally thought of it * whether it personally bothers you * whether it personally bothers women who are involved in the concept

When someone from a marginalized group tells you something is problematic, and is having a negative impact, you don’t fucking argue that the impact is too small to be relevant. (Which is what all of the above are saying.) You just don’t. Unless you’re an asshole.

Y’all can fight this out amongst yourselves now. I’ve given you a valuable piece of information. The quality of the character of the community will determine what happens now. Based on responses so far, my money is on “nothing.” I’d love to be wrong.