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Yes, I knew that sexism would be waiting to twist Michelle's image. Part of the problem is the "First Lady" job.
It sucks. Or at least much of it does. It is impossible to take the role and not be overshadowed by one's husband, have one's schedule almost utterly controlled, be entombed in the expectations of the role -- which require one act like some old-fashioned lady of good works while never being assertive enough to draw fire.
Now, any woman who has ever been a prominent club woman would tell us that being wimpy has nothing to do with getting things done. The first lady role is rather "Southern." Be sweet, well-groomed at all times, smile appropriately, act the hostess, display femininity and, when it can't be seen, rap knuckles mightily.
Hillary, feminist, was ill-suited to the role. She stands up pretty well to her powerful husband, doesn't she? Despite Bill's pecadillos, few people see their relationship as unequal -- and that is threatening to many people.
Yes, I think Michelle has been "hushed" a bit. As a black man, Obama bears even more risk if he appears "whipped."
Isn't it sad that our cultural expectations make our politicians twist themselves into such pretzels to fit the "Pleasantville" 1950s family dream?
Go back and watch that movie "Pleasantville." It makes some powerful statments about the power of sex and the rigidity of gender roles, but there are no black people that I recall in Pleasantville.
That's what the Obamas are up against.
