Change the Good Ol’ Boy System

Change the Good Ol’ Boy System

By Sherry Holliman When women start winning more seats for leadership positions they will soon start to make a difference with social progress. We are rapidly heading into 2019 and we, as Christians, educators, and leaders, are still struggling with issues such as gender bias, racism, nepotism, sexism, and other “-isms.”

With the good ol’ boy system currently thriving, we will continue to cling to old traditions and practices. The “old boy network” refers to an informal system of friendships and connections through which men use their positions of influence by providing favors and information to help other men. Often men are connected because they belong to the same country club, fraternity, boards, or share a similar social background. Many people believe the system had its origins in the South, but these networks can be found all over the United States and internationally.

Most importantly, many good olí boy’s networks are informal. They can exist in any setting from corporate, to religious, to social and political associations commonly amongst, but not limited to, white males. Although membership has grown to include more women and minorities, the men’s club still wrongfully excludes most women. These clubs use power through their connections. Making the saying true, it is who you know not what you know.

When introduced to the right person, someone can make important business transactions or close a deal through these networks. These networks function like any other informal social network.

The mantra of the good olí boy network “You scratch my back and I scratch your back”.

These people are so bitter that they spend most of their time trying to cheat each other in order to make themselves feel better and they never reach their end goal. The “good ol’ boys club” mindset pretty much pushes people around, all because they have nothing to fear disciplinary wise. If we were able to do away with the “club” we could potentially be treated fairly. We need to use our VOTE to make a difference to balance the leadership seats in the state of Arkansas. Is it right? Is it fair? Of course not, but the club will always exist until changes are made. Changes cannot be made until mindsets are changed. Once the mindset has changed the vote will reflect your network.

The power to change this system is in your hands with your vote!

Sherry Holliman is a concerned citizen of Crittenden County and has some views on a variety of topics that she wants to share with her neighbors.

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