Obama: no empathy for women?

posted at 11:29 am on June 4, 2009 by Pundette
[ Islam ]    printer-friendly

If ever there were a slam-dunk universal party-transcending cause it is the plight of Muslim women. It’s well-known, well-documented, and extreme. Any man with a mother, wife, daughter, or sister is likely to take it almost personally.

Then there’s Barack Obama, who seems to be strangely devoid of empathy when he speaks on this subject. Or perhaps it is his eagerness to curry favor with Islamic leadership that has rendered him practically mute. Ignoring the brutal slavery that is the life of many Islamic women, he talks of defending their right to cover their hair, of providing them with education and employment opportunities.

He tries to equate our culture with Islamic culture, reminding us that Western women are also struggling for equal rights. Because no matter what, Obama is compelled to point out that America is no better than any other country. In the case of women’s rights this is not only absurd; it’s reprehensible.

Here’s the section of the Cairo speech on women’s rights:

The sixth issue that I want to address is women’s rights.

I know there is debate about this issue. I reject the view of some in the West that a woman who chooses to cover her hair is somehow less equal, but I do believe that a woman who is denied an education is denied equality. And it is no coincidence that countries where women are well-educated are far more likely to be prosperous.

Now let me be clear: issues of women’s equality are by no means simply an issue for Islam. In Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Indonesia, we have seen Muslim-majority countries elect a woman to lead. Meanwhile, the struggle for women’s equality continues in many aspects of American life, and in countries around the world.

Our daughters can contribute just as much to society as our sons, and our common prosperity will be advanced by allowing all humanity – men and women – to reach their full potential. I do not believe that women must make the same choices as men in order to be equal, and I respect those women who choose to live their lives in traditional roles. But it should be their choice. That is why the United States will partner with any Muslim-majority country to support expanded literacy for girls, and to help young women pursue employment through micro-financing that helps people live their dreams.

Yes, by all means, Muslim women are crying out for micro-financing.

What is wrong with the man? Is he trying not to offend Muslim leaders here? Or is he so wrapped up in himself that he just doesn’t care? Rush often points out that Obama isn’t cool, he’s cold. I think he has a point.

Don’t miss Peter Daou, who can’t believe it either, and my related post on the Cairo speech.

Cross-posted here.

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