May 26, 2006
Tampons' Sinful Existence Obliterated from Pope's View
The Polish government and broadcast industry are getting ready for the Pope's visit by censoring anything that might offend His delicate sensibilities, such as liquor and lingerie ads... and tampon ads. While I'd certainly kick up dirt if my country pulled such a stunt, I recognize that some countries have to walk before they can run. And since the vast majority of Poland is Catholic, it's at least easy to understand the impulse. But even so--censoring tampon ads implies that a woman's menstrual cycle is a shameful vice on her part, as if a pox would fell the country should the existence of lady parts ever cross the Pope's mind. The only shame, however, is having evolved to a modern age while so many ancients still rule. That these particular ancients have a consistent history of subjugating women makes this action all the less surprising, but still pretty sad.
posted by scott pilutik at May 26, 2006 11:58 PM