To the Editor:

When I was young, smart women were silenced by being told we were “nothing but pretty faces” and that we should be “the little woman behind the man.” Things haven’t changed. The campaign post demeaning Rebekah Harriman-Stites, saying we don’t need “a pretty face” [see Newtown Bee article, September 25, page A-1] shows that some people still believe this is the way to combat a challenge from a strong woman with good ideas.

There’s been a recent nationwide increase in bullying and violence against women, but that’s not surprising; look at the example set by the president. He insults everyone who disagrees with him, particularly women, focusing on their appearance, calling them horseface, fat pig, slob, dog... the list goes on. He has been accused of sexual misconduct by at least 22 women, and has spoken of his own daughter as a sexual object. Remember the infamous Access Hollywood tape? He’s influencing men and boys all over the country to demean and dehumanize women.

Is this the way you want your elected officials to speak about your sisters and daughters? Is this the role model you want for your children?

Joe Biden is a welcome contrast. Twenty-six years ago he wrote and championed the Violence Against Women Act, which led to a 64% decline in domestic violence. Biden’s plans (joebiden.com) will:

*Improve women’s economic security

*Expand access to health care

*Help women navigate work and families

*Expand access to higher education and relieve student debt

*Confront online harassment, abuse, and stalking

*Dismantle systemic racism against women of color.

It’s a stark choice: help and support women, or insult and demean women. Do you want insults or ideas? Let’s elect people with real ideas and good values. Let’s elect Rebekah Harriman-Stites for state [representative], and Joe Biden for president.

Betsy Litt

86 Great Hill Road, Newtown September 28, 2020