Jay-Z’s “99 Problems” and Obama’s Failure to Confront Misogyny

Posting at her blog, Heidi Li Feldman had a simple request for Barack Obama: “Speak out publicly against misogyny, the hatred and fear of women.”

Feldman later learned that Jay-Z and NBA star LeBron James will hold a concert for the Obama campaign next Wednesday, and she points out the sexism in the song Jay-Z recently dedicated to the McCain-Palin ticket.

Feldman sends this message to Obama:

“Next Wednesday visit the concert with Jay Z, and please, exercise your right to free speech - and even if it gets you trouble with some folks. Use your famed powers of oratory to explain misogyny, why the lyrics to "99 cents" smack of it, why JayZ's comments smack of it, and why you as somebody who claims to be a progressive who wants to lead a majority-female country will not tolerate it. Then, take a bow and leave.”

In a note to her readers, Feldman advises:

“I am serious. Tell Senator Obama that you expect him to take this opportunity to show us that he realizes what misogyny is or is trying to learn to, and that he will dedicate himself to fighting it in all its forms.”

You can contact the Obama campaign online or at (866) 675-2008 or by mail:

Obama for America
P.O. Box 8102
Chicago, IL 60680

Obama for America will only accept #10 envelopes. All other mail will be returned to sender.