Sexist Chant: Relax! It’s just an old joke

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As a feminist over the years I’ve often tried to trouble some language misuse that has the potential to hurt people. While it appears that there has been a slight move away from saying “it’s a man’s world” and using the generic “man” to refer to all people, it can be useful to remember the struggle to have language habits change to be more accurate and inclusive, even on a linguistic matter so basic. How many times did people roll their eyes when I said “human” when the word “man” was expected… So humankind instead of mankind for example, or “chairperson” rather than “chairman.”

slowly over 30 years or so, language has evolved so that many people are accepting of more inclusive language, and less inclined to tell users to “lighten up” or “relax.” Pointing out how any group uses a term that could be offensive or hurtful is usually met with a chorus of different versions of the phrase “it doesn’t mean anything, we’re just having fun.”

Winnipeg loves it’s NHL Jets hockey team. While we made it to the playoffs and were beaten handily by the Anaheim Ducks, many fans in the city consoled themselves with the image of being the best supporters and most creative supporters in the league. We generally love our “WHITE OUT” We love our chants. Yet one that was used in the third playoff game in Winnipeg on Monday, April 20, had a offensive sexist kick in the name of good fun — taking a gendered slap-shot by chanting “Katy Perry” when Corey Perry of the Ducks was on the ice.

When approached by local CTV reporter Josh Crabb, Fiona went on record with concerns to consider “Fan Chant during playoff game catches criticism.”