Clinton Rogers on ‘woke culture’ and ‘cancel culture’

When I first heard the term I wasn’t even sure what it meant!

But I think I’m beginning to understand it now, at about the same time as I’m getting to grips with another popular 21st century expression - ‘cancel culture’.

In essence they both boil down to the same thing – what is acceptable today and what isn’t.  The problem is that what is acceptable now is plainly different from even a few years ago. And, inevitably, we can’t all agree on what our new ‘standards’ should be.

So here’s my take on it – I have absolutely no idea any more!

I do know that no one batted an eyelid 30 years ago when my old employer, the BBC, ran an annual “Bring Your Daughters To Work Day.” I don’t remember anyone asking: “Why can’t I bring my son?” 

I think we understood the corporation was trying to encourage more women to consider a career in broadcasting, which seemed like a good idea at the time. So I brought two of my daughters to work. But what would happen if the BBC tried a similar scheme today?

I was intrigued that the Cheltenham Festival cancelled its long-held tradition of “Ladies Day” and replaced it with “Style Wednesday.” Why? To be ‘more inclusive’, apparently. 

It did amuse me that one (male) racing journalist decided his response would be to go to the festival in a dress and wide-brimmed hat.  That raised a few eyebrows. It was his new ‘style’, he said.

Ladies Day was an institution and (unless I have missed something) I don’t recall anyone ever complaining about it.

I have heard some women say as a concept it was patronising. But does that mean that International Women’s Day, recently celebrated and applauded, is also patronising?

This is dangerous ground, I know. But in the interest of equality can I make one request? Outside public toilets, if we have “Ladies” can we also have “Gentlemen” – not “men”. Alternatively, change “Ladies” for “Women”. Just asking.

If you wish to contact Clinton, you can email him at clinton.rogers@countygazette.co.uk.