Eastham Windmill

Sexting: How We Have Failed the Children

The sexualization and objectification of females is everywhere-it is the new colonization of every available space. Years ago, adults would travel to the sundry part of town to seek out the seamy societal taboos that could only be found in what was called "the red light district". Today, "the red light district" is pumped through cables and the airwaves directly into the sanctity of our homes, putting families at risk with messages that are simply not healthy for children or adults for that matter.

We protect our children from all types of harm. There are laws to ensure the use of seatbelts and cars seats , children cannot purchase alcohol or tobacco products, but what they not only consume, but are inundated with, is a commercial media system that exploits children on multiple levels for the sake of corporate profit.  And one of those ways is the vulgar sexualization and objectification of females. The message that is sent to girls at the youngest of ages is that their worth and their power is based solely upon their sexuality. Diane Levin and Jean Kilbourne's most recent book, So Sexy So Soon, brings these issues to the forefront.

If we are to understand our media system as the primary source of storytelling, or the instrument that instills the values of the society, then children should not be punished as felons for mimicking what society via commercial media, has deemed appropriate. For those whose first reaction is to blame parents, please understand that once a child walks outside of his or her home, there are no protections in place. In other words, we need laws and policies to do so. This is not about censorship, but protecting our children-- and we have been complacent and negligent in this matter.  We urge all who care about our youth and our future as a species to visit the website for The Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood.

Dianna Morton, Media Education Educator (Cape Cod Regional Technical High School)

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James Paul Ludwig, Media Activist