Skirt and slit lengths do not define the modesty of a bas yisroel

From: MSGraphics@aol.com (Linda Katz)
Date: Fri, 19 Apr 1996 10:38:22 -0400
Subject: Re: Slit Skirts

I object to Heather Benjamin's assertion that considering the issue of slit skirts ridiculous and humiliating for women.

I wear them- just because even with the fuller styles, finding dressy skirts without slits is difficult- and walking when they're sewn up is almost impossible... (perhaps frum manufacturers need to address this...)

Nevertheless, if respected Rabbonim consider this a problematic issue-it's not her or our place to call it ridiculous!

These are not anti-woman gestures and certainly not meant to humiliate. When sexual mores and civility, decency, etc. decline in general in society, it is the job of rabbinic leaders to compensate- and even overcompensate sometimes. This is not the same as the "frummer than thou" syndrome.. as it is on a generational and not a personal level.

Let me retaliate with a different story- also true- of the woman who walks into an upscale orthodox-owned dress shop and says "I want the sexiest thing you have that is still snius." Skirt and slit lengths do not define the modesty of a bas yisroel- it's about so much more than that... attitude, demeanor... Our Rabbis need to keep trying to sensitize us to how far our generation is falling.... and to stem the tide before it's too late.

Linda Katz

You rock Babe, and win the Hot Chanie award for today, even though you wrote this in '96...