July 3: LETTERS
I'VE NEVER written to a newspaper before, but I'm outraged at this issue of
toplessness. I have lived here for about 15 years, and I can't get over the depths
people will sink to for a little attention. Which, in truth, is the heart of the
matter. It has nothing to do with freedom and equality. Men and women are built
differently, in case no one has noticed. Women feel sexual stimulation from their
breasts differently than men do. Women's breasts are thought of as sexual objects
by both men and women. If women think they are going to change men's attitudes by
releasing their breasts they will join the list of ultimate fools. It ain't gonna
happen. It all boils down to respect in a lot of different ways. I can think of
countless ways to display my womanhood that keeps my dignity intact. The women who
do this only harm how all women are viewed in this world. Make some use of your
brains and wake up!
Sharon Arseneault
(They're getting more than a "little attention")
AS FOR women who bare their breasts irreverently (on a shopping promenade
as opposed to a beach), they are just like kids with new toys. Look what I have,
everybody. Gee, you would think they would have gotten over the novelty of men's
reaction to them when they went through puberty. Regardless, the fad will wear off
eventually. When we finally stop paying undue attention, they will stop showing
off. The pendulum was to the right for a very long time. Now that it has been set
free we must abide as it overshoots centre and travels its course temporarily on
the lunatic side of left. Toplessness will swing back to where it belongs, for men
and women: relaxing at the beach or maybe the occasional sun-warmed green space
in the park during lunch.
Gary S. Pascoe
Oshawa
(Toplessness will be a moot point come October)