We’re back in Legislative season here in Oklahoma, which means it’s time — like clockwork — for this year’s predictable bout of discriminatory bills targeting LGBTQ Oklahomans. You can’t count on state government for much, but you can count on this — if the Oklahoma Legislature is in session, some legislator will try to boost … Continue reading Ignorance, fear and hatred are never the basis of good legislation
Gender Equality
When sport is more than sport: The U.S. Women call us to a better society
I am not, by even the most liberal definition, a “sports guy.” So, please, do not take this as a sports column. But, sometimes the games played for our amusement mean something much more. Sometimes, sport calls us to examine the fiber of our society, and to take a principled stand for its betterment. … Continue reading When sport is more than sport: The U.S. Women call us to a better society
The morning after Independence, the fight continues
Americans woke on July 5, 1776, to a long fight for independence. We declared on July 4, 1776, that all men are created equal, endowed with unalienable rights, and that government derives its powers from the consent of the governed. And, in our red-white-and-blue mythology, “we” won those ideals with the conclusion of the American … Continue reading The morning after Independence, the fight continues
Made, and called, together, in the image of God
Almighty God, whose Son, the risen Christ, sent forth your apostles Andronicus and Junia to proclaim the Gospel and extend your reign: send us forth in your Holy Spirit, that women and men may minister as one in faithful witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the … Continue reading Made, and called, together, in the image of God
International Women’s Day — a day to recognize how far we haven’t come
“The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.” Those words from acclaimed journalist and women’s rights activist Gloria Steinem call us today, on the 109th International Women’s Day, to collective reflection and action toward … Continue reading International Women’s Day — a day to recognize how far we haven’t come
Pay equality — It’s not just for feminists
Amid all the hullabaloo at the Capitol this week, an important issue went largely unnoticed. The National Partnership for Women & Families released a new study to coincide with Equal Pay Day, which was Tuesday. Data in the report underscores why Equal Pay Day is scheduled when it is — women would have to work … Continue reading Pay equality — It’s not just for feminists
Misogyny and redneck crazies
There's few things in this world that scare the bejeezus out of me. Clowns. IRS audits (for no particular reason). Prostate exams (for obvious reasons). These all frighten me. But, there's nothing that scares me more than the persistent wink-and-a-nod attitude our society takes toward sexual harassment, gender discrimination and domestic violence. This scares me … Continue reading Misogyny and redneck crazies
James R. Neal 