Letters | Boys do cry: what shaming of Tim Walz’s son says about us all
Readers discuss the reaction to an episode from the Democratic National Convention, and the lure of Chinese products even among Republicans
Many internet users, and even certain notable media figures, have been critical of 17-year-old Gus Walz, belittling his tearful reaction to his father’s acceptance speech and taking jabs at his masculinity.
Politics aside, it is highly unfortunate that a boy, or anyone, should be criticised for displaying his emotions. Society has too deeply internalised the gender binary and many people still firmly believe that it is “emasculating” for men to cry or show too much emotion. And so what should have been seen as a tender moment between father and son prompted a torrent of online hate and contempt from some quarters.
In a society that is becoming ever more polarised, one can only hope that legitimately heartfelt moments will find responses that express goodwill rather than scorn.
We should all try our best to widen our perspectives, foster civility and choose courtesy – even when it comes to those with whom we have deep-rooted differences. That way we can gradually shift away from the constant barrage of negativity so prominent in our public discourse and interactions.