re: #88 Shiplord Kirel

I am finding that a simple discussion of the facts of Phyllis Schlafly’s career puts a strain on my “don’t speak ill of the dead” policy.

Even so, the woman was a historical figure, even more significant in my opinion than is commonly realized today. Her influence is everywhere. A stroll through any inner-city neighborhood will reveal the subtle effects of the southern strategy. I, personally, raised two female scientists. The failure of the ERA figured in that process, and not in a positive way.
The real nature and pervasive influence of her activism is a legitimate; indeed, very necessary; subject for discussion.

Given all she has done, the only way to avoid speaking ill of this person would be to assume a false neutrality, or to abandon my own principles.

I understand, and respect, that she was someone’s beloved grandmother (and great grandmother) but that does not give her a pass for the monstrous damage she has done to this society over the last 50 years.

1. a day has passed
2. Some people are so bad that you can only state the truth or shut up - so in those instances you are quiet for at least a day.
3. Some people are so intrinsically evil that you can say things about them the day they die. E.G. I had no problem cranking out “the Death of an Evil Man” posts immediately following terrorist deaths. Phyllis was in a grey zone between “bad” and “intrinsically evil”.