Sports Illustrated Vonn Cover Disturbs Some Women

Count me out in the list of women who have any problem with the ‘Sports Illustrated” cover featuring “Lily Vonn’ who is billed as ‘America’s Best Woman Skier Ever’.

Dr. Nicole LaVoi takes issue with Vonn being viewed as sexualized and objectified on the cover.

“In sport media research, we would code that as a passive shot. She is not actually on the slope skiing, with her helmet on. She is in a posed tuck position in an attempt to simulate what actually skiing would look like.”

She continued, “Picture this as a way to frame what I’m trying to get at: Picture a male ski racer in a similar pose on the cover of SI, smiling at the camera. Would we see that? How would you react to that picture, verses the picture of Vonn?” via Vancouver Sun

Critics have lamblasted LaVoi for inaccuracy first and foremost, reminding her that the cover shot from the 1992 Winter Olympics was an identical snap, but of male skier A.J. Kitt.

Everyone agrees that her poles are in the right place, that her body wasn’t manipulated to emphasize the sensuality of her pose. Alas, ladies, this is the form the body takes when one is an Olympic skier.

Many people have suggested that LaVoi has serious sexual issues of her own and should see a shrink about them. This is my view.

To be human is to be sexual; our bodies are sensual.

I laughed today that scientists have discovered the female hormone progesterone in walnut trees. This is one more reminder that even though religions and the dictionary define the word sensuality to include …

1. pertaining to, inclined to, or preoccupied with the gratification of the senses or appetites; carnal; fleshy

2. lacking in moral restraints; lewd or unchaste

3. arousing or exciting the senses or appetites

4. worldly’ materialistic’ irreligious

5. of or pertaining to the senses or physical sensation; sensory

6. pertaining to the philosophical doctrine of sensationalism

 … Mother Nature has another view of life. To be human and alive is not to be lewd.

Question: we have here a photo of a tulip? Should it be banned from use because some folks find it unsettline and highly suggestive?  Anne