I work at Old Navy as a corporate slave (aka: retail associate). On my way to my 15 minute break, I spotted this new infant t-shirt and shorts set. Interesting to say the least! What is the point of displaying masculinity on a baby's shirt? Socialization and gosh do we start early! It is a reminder of what it means to be masculine not only for the young boy to be, but for the other children and people around him; physical strength, emotionlessness (heaven forbid if a baby boy might cry!), violence, logical/analytical intelligence, compulsory heterosexuality, confidence and independence. Being tough, comparatively, is a subtle rejection of the feminine. Female is associated with weakness, lack of physical strength, unbridled emotions, homosexuality, passivity and dependence. This division has disastrous consequences, including the rise of violence against women, homophobia and deeply ingrained gender divisions in the workplace, home and school.
Check out Katz's film Tough Guise for a detailed analysis of the ways in which masculinity is instilled in young men and the consequences it has.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3exzMPT4nGI
Spotted at:
Old Navy clothing company
Product caption:
"Tough Guy"
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