I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this. On the one hand, I am a big fan of the Obamas, and yes, I've noticed that they're a relatively young, attractive couple. But, on the other hand, I'm annoyed that this is the most interesting thing CNN could find to write about Michelle Obama. Case in point:
"Those toned arms are becoming a trademark. And a source of inspiration for some women."
Really? I hadn't noticed. Yes, first ladies often set the trends in fashion; just think of Jackie Kennedy. But is it really neccesary to reduce Michelle Obama to 'nice arms"?
There's also the fact that people even notice, and feel the need to comment on, her physical appearance. Does it matter what the first lady looks like? Will her choice of attire influence policy? Will her body shape affect the difference she can make in the world? I think not. It's not really that important.
Should I be annoyed at this? Or am I just being too wary of sexism?
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Talking about Michelle Obama's biceps isn't the same as reducing her to her biceps.
I'd be upset if the article was criticizing her body. An article chiding her for gaining weight or having man-biceps or whatever stupid thing would really, really piss me off.
The Obamas are young and more attractive than most politicians, and they're going to get treated more like Hollywood celebrities than the Bushes ever did. That means a lot more articles covering fairly irrelevant aspects of their existence.
Exactly. Complimenting someone on a body part doesn't mean that you're reducing them to just that part. If someone tells me I have a nice nose, I'm not suddenly just a big walking nose, you know?
Plus they're really attractive. Not even just by politician standards, they're just attractive people. Of course its going to be commented on. Compare how the Bushs look compared to the Obamas - that's why this is news. LOL.
It's fine to comment that she has good biceps, but I think it's stupid to say she'll inspire women to do it too. Women are already "inspired" enough to work out, for bad reasons and good reasons. I will say that reducing her *fitness level* to having good biceps is bad. This is what is annoying- too many women work out to look a certain way rather than to be strong. I'm sorry but standing infront of the mirror lifting light weights to get "Michelle Obama biceps" before your wedding doesn't make you fit. This is what bothers me about the comment.
It doesn't bother me because the media is constantly talking about the President's physique as well. There's nothing wrong with complimenting the first couple's athleticism. buggie, not everyone has good biceps but if someone does then it's ok to admire it; it's up to you whether to feel pressured by that or to just accept yourself.
This comment just really angered me. Not only during this whole thing was Kanye West just so full of himself (like usual) but he was basically excusing domestic violence. What it sounded like IMO was that Kanye didn't think Brown bedroom furniture should be punished for his actions at all. Not by the media, the public or the police.
And I hate when people use the term "mistake" when describing a horribly violent crime. It's like WTF?
Well
at least they aren't talking about her gluteus maximus.
Michelle Obama is one vicious, angry Klingon.
They really do drone on about her fashions and it is surprising how mean and cruel some folks can be. .She's real and doesn't squander the publics" money.
Michelle Obama could really set off her wardrobe if she finished her look with TGee Designs of Chgo.