I never had a label for it, until now. Mormon feminists call it: The Primary Voice. It's the superficial, artificially high, nicey nice, fake voice many Mormon women use when speaking to children and, unfortunately, almost everyone else.
When I hear it, the speaker loses massive credibility points with me. It seems the antithesis of intelligence or substance. Of course, the opposite voice can get you labeled as an obnoxious bitch. Frankly, I'll take that risk.
Some women leaders conspicuously lack this voice. Here's the short list:
Sheri Dew was such a breath of fresh air. We've never had anyone like her before or since, at least in my view. Mary Ellen Smoot also makes my list. She said tough and courageous things but got a little overshadowed by Dew. Smoot had the sense to make Dew one of her counselors though. She deserves a lot of credit. (Who was the other counselor? Can't remember, she never made much of an impression on me.)
Julie Beck also said tough and courageous things. She took some abuse for it though. I think it made her careful. Careful is okay.
Bonnie Oscarson also gets high points. Her no nonsense approach and plain speaking is also refreshing. I look forward to hearing her and reading her more in the future.
I don't have strong opinions about other female leaders. I'm sure they are fine women. I just wish I could see more than a smiley face.
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