Hats off to Lorien Bourne! I read last Wednesday’s article “A long struggle for equal gender rights” and felt compelled to write in. The fact that she is pointing out the obvious sexualization of females in our country, and the double standard between men and women’s bodies made my week!

Right before this article was published I had actually had a long discussion with a friend on how I believe it isn’t fair that men can show their bodies at will and women cannot! Why, because it is offensive? Or is it offensive unless a man wants to see it? I think it is the latter, and it is simply wrong. I also agree wholeheartedly with the comparison between “Girls Gone Wild” and her decision to go topless. Is our law enforcement really that sexist? Those women are “allowed” or have “permission” from men to show their breasts, so it is OK. On the flip side, no permission or sexualization is required for men, and it is considered “alarming” (according to the prosecutor Matthew Reger).

So, good for you, Ms. Bourne. You have my full support. People like you are what are helping our country change. If this case goes on to a higher court, I will be disappointed in our local justice system, but also very proud of her determination.

– Danielle Marcum Senior, Exercise Physiology