Tracking first ladies through history is a tour of women's development from disenfranchised chattel to champions of choice that also offers a glimpse into how conflicted we remain about women's proper role. What upsets so many in Obama's own political camp is that this first lady has so vividly chosen family over career, finding expression in the most elemental of endeavors — digging her hands into Mother Earth and offering nourishment to her young.
Such an explicit embrace of a traditional female role is nothing short of heresy to some. In fact, it is a brave stance by a wise woman whose priorities deserve to be celebrated. There will be plenty of time for career and Big Issues beyond the family table once the children are grown — a lesson best learned sooner than too late.
Kathleen Parker's email address is kathleenparker@washpost.com.
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Mrs. Obama is a classy lady despite the republican attacks and rhetoric.
Mrs. Obama is a great role model. She's a great wife and mother, to be sure, and family values are evident in the White House. But no matter what she or any First Lady does, there will always be cheap shots. That's too bad.
Michelle Obama is under greater assault today because she is Barack Obama's wife. Unlike all other First Ladies, she is the first African-American First Lady, wife of the first African-American President. This sets her apart from all other More..