Readers disagree with claims picture is sexist

sawilliams@thekmgroup.co.uk The promise to remove a ‘sexist’ picture from an Ashford coffee shop has sparked an online debate.

Last week, the Kentish Express featured a story about how Caffe Nero were set to remove a print from all their stores after a customer complained it was offensive and shocking.

The large print, which can be seen hanging on the wall in Caffe Nero at the Ashford Designer Outlet, shows three men leaning against a wall staring at a woman’s rear as she walks down an alleyway.

Human nature

Our story attracted more than 100 comments and saw more than 2,100 people vote in our online poll, which asked whether the print was sexist.

The results show that 76% of voters (1,673) disagreed that the photo was sexist, with 22% (493) thinking that it was and a further 1% (28) didn’t know.

And over 130 people gave their feedback to the story on Kent Online with the majority, including a large number of women, also defending the picture.

Lucas said: “If this artwork should be banned, then so should the Diet Coke adverts and Loose Women.”

Gixxer said: “Isn’t art supposed to reflect real life? Men look at women, it’s the way it’s been for generations, so what? Women do look at men too, it’s called human nature!”

Tigra666 said: “I am female, under 30. There is nothing wrong with the picture at all, I enjoy it when men look at me, who cares?”

GabriellaC added: “To me, the photo isn’t offensive. Caffe Nero, bit over the top to go to the expense of withdrawing a post from 600 shops because one insecure lady has issues with it.” But not everyone agreed. Gypsy lady said: “To all the men who have left comments on here. It may ‘only’ be a picture but look at the bigger picture.

“Your teenage daughter is walking down the street, are you happy and comfortable with men leering at her as she walks by? By saying the picture’s OK, you are saying it’s OK for men to leer at your daughters, sisters, nieces, granddaughters, girlfriends, wives, mothers.”

What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk