‘T.M.T.’ sexism

Press, 2 July 1983, Page 16

‘T.M.T.’ sexism

Sir,—Those correspondents who have stated, correctly I believe, that “The Mainland Touch” is a bastion of male chauvinism miss the point completely: it is that this regional programme, as fronted by Rodney Bryant, has for years constantly been a favourite with the local population, as it is a regional programme and it is the flag-bearer for points south of Wellington. While I cannot condone any persons of such persuasion, my heart, however, sailed with happiness during the presentation on June 28, after Canterbury had displayed true rugby in beating the Lions on their fleeting visit. While I objected to the Springbok tour, I am rapt with joy over this present display of Kiwi (male) superiority showing itself in demolishing the fleeing Lions, and damn it, if “The Mainland Touch” is somewhat biased towards maledom, it is not as biased as are many of the commentators who are one-eyed as regards certain North Island representatives.—Yours, etc., PETER W. KENNEDY. JUNE 29, 1983. Sir,—The National Organisation for Women, when contacted early this week, endorsed the assessment of ‘The Mainland Touch” made by Ken Strongman (“The Press,” June 24). We do so again now after further surveying our members. Ken Strongman concluded his review by wondering whether the programme was “a true reflection of women in Canterbury.” The chauvinism of T.M.T. does not reflect the opinion or feelings of these particular Canterbury women. N.O.W. believes that Rodney Bryant’s assertion (“The Press,” June 24), “I am certainly all male,” is no justification for not having equal numbers of women presenting and formulating a programme which should be of equal interest and acceptability to women and men, old and young. Replacing a male by a female to be on the receiving end of Rodney’s quips, would not be sufficient imErovement. The time has come, [.O.W. believes, for a complete change in the spirit of “The Mainland Touch.”—Yours, etc., BETTY ROBERTS, Co-ordinator, National Organisation for Women, Christchurch. July 1, 1983.