Picture from Eclectablog.
You remember this, right?
A male Republican House leader in Michigan silenced two female Democratic state legislators on Thursday after the pair tried to advance a measure that would have reduced access to vasectomies.
While discussing a bill that would erode the availability of abortion, Reps. Barb Byrum and Lisa Brown introduced an amendment to apply the same regulations to vasectomies that GOP lawmakers wanted to add to abortion services.
The debate grew heated, as Republicans sought to gravel down the women. Byrum was not permitted to speak in favor of the measure and Brown was repeatedly interrupted. “I’m flattered that you’re all so interested in my vagina, but no means no,” she said. The next day both were silenced.
Well, quite a few people turned out last night on the front steps of the Michigan Capitol to listen to a reading of “The Vagina Monologues” – about 5000 or so.
The crowd was welcomed by state Sen. Gretchen Whitmer, D-East Lansing, who said “Welcome to all of you and your lady parts!”
Austin Muir, 21, of Lapeer, came bearing a sign that said “Trust Women,” and to show support for the women in his life, including his mother, who is a midwife.
“It’s ridiculous what’s going on here,” he said.
Former state Rep. Maxine Berman, D-West Bloomfield, doesn’t participate in too many political events any more. “But last week just put me over the top.”
Lisa Brown is Berman’s representative, “And if she has no voice, than neither do I,” she said.
The event was a lesson in creative signage. Angela Ash, 25, of Grand Rapids, held aloft “Keep Your Mitts off my bitts,” While Sherry Alef, 58, of Algonac, carried a sign that proclaimed: “Angry white woman. Don’t shush me.”
Pasted on her backside was another warning: “this slut votes.”
