What happens in Texas fortunately doesn’t stay in Texas. The world is watching. What happens and how this all plays out will no doubt be an important determination of how America responds to the Republican War On Women.
Since President Obama was re-elected, Republicans have doubled down on their full-out assault on women. From equal pay to reproductive rights and the poor handling of rape in the military, women are being pushed to their limits. No matter what happens with the extreme proposed abortion ban, it looks as if a real war for our rights is about to escalate in a manner reminiscent of the 1970s women’s liberation movement.
The drama between Democratic rock star Wendy Davis and misogynist Gov. Rick Perry has captivated a nation.
Here’s the breakdown of their public battle:
June 25 – Senator Wendy Davis and her posse of thousands show up to the Texas Senate to filibuster the controversial SB5 abortion bill. Hundreds of thousands watch the proceedings online and at the stroke of midnight, there is confusion. Media outlets report the bill has passed, but Internet wonks grab screenshots proving the Texas Legislature altered the timestamp of the vote and did not pass the bill in time. Texas Republicans are forced to concede.
June 26 – In an effort to prove he is “the man,” Gov. Perry calls for a second special session starting on July 1, which will last for 30 days. If Davis wants to filibuster, she will have to endure the strict no leaning, eating, drinking or restroom breaks for two weeks straight. It is close to impossible for anyone to last that long with such outrageous restrictions. Nice going Texas, way to be a fair and balanced democracy! Women’s groups start organizing in an effort to protest the new session.
Davis responds to Perry’s announcement by calling him and Lt. Gov. Dewhurst out on their “misplaced priorities,” and proclaims she will not back down.
June 27 – Perry feels the need to shame Davis in a speech to National Right To Life. He points out that she was a child of a single mother and a teen mom. He goes on to say “It’s just unfortunate that she hasn’t learned from her own example…”
Davis responds to Perry. “They are small words that reflect a dark and negative point of view. Our governor should reflect our Texas values. Sadly, Gov. Perry fails that test.” She adds that his comment is “without dignity and tarnishes the high office he holds.” Oh, snap!
June 28 – Perry’s office tells the New York Daily News on Friday that Perry was “praising Sen. Davis for her success despite coming from difficult circumstances.”
Without missing a beat, Davis replies to Perry on MSNBC, “I would say to him that I had the privilege of making a choice about the path I chose for my life, and I am so proud of my daughters, but I could never for a moment put myself in the shoes of another woman confronting a difficult personal choice, and it really isn’t for him to make statements like that.”
History is being made. Wendy Davis has become a heroine to people all over the world. I believe her bravery and her resolution to fight will act as a catalyst for more women and men to stand up against the blatant attack on all American women.
Don’t mess with Texas? HA! Don’t underestimate the power of pissed off women! You have NO idea what you’ve started, Governor. We may lose a battle or two, or even three, but you’ve stuck your little stick into a wasp’s nest. It’s gonna to leave a mark.
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Kimberley A. Johnson (BIO) – A.K.A. The Anti Coulter is the author of The Virgin Diaries and an activist for women’s rights. Like her on Facebook, Twitter or friend her on FB HERE. |
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