Elizabeth Warren Is a “Pixy” Now?
Sandwiched in the beginning of an otherwise reasonable and informative article on Elizabeth Warren, a candidate for U.S. Senate, the Cape Cod Times felt the need to describe Warren as a “pixy-like Harvard law professor.” A pixy-like professor? Really?
The term “pixy,” which according to the Merriam-Webster defines as “a cheerful mischievous sprite,” has zero relevance to Warren’s run for office or career as a law professor at one of the country’s top schools. Calling a grown woman a “cheerful mischievous sprite” is insulting. Would you ever use that word to describe a male candidate? No. Which means your poor word choice is Just Plain Sexist.
Though this is a change of pace from the media’s favorite adjective to describe Warren, it is nonetheless a demeaning and belittling way to describe this highly accomplished candidate for the U.S. Senate. No matter how you cut it, it’s sexist.
Published by Kate McCarthy on 02/28/2012