Mike Drop
Are there more Johns and Mikes or more female members of the House GOP (Republican Party)?
What story does the chart tell?
Explain why that is the case.
Because of the data from the chart, explain one consequence on American politics.
Is this good news?
Does this information surprise you?
List one question you have about this data:
50% of Americans are female. 23% of Congress is female. Imagine that 50% of the House was female. Consider how that would that change American public policy. Describe three specific policies that would impact.
Explain whether you personally think that would be a good change.
50% of Americans are female. 23% of Congress is female. List the top three reasons for this lack of gender parity:
How different do you imagine this data will be in 40 years (if there is a Congress in 40 years)?
How different do you predict this data was 100 years ago?
How do you think the number of Johns or Mikes compares to the number of female House members of the Democratic Party?*
What about the demographic (race,age, gender, religion, etc.) makeup and ideological (beliefs and values) makeup of the two major US parties explains this difference?
A student of mine once asked, in exasperation, “How could any woman be a Republican?” How would you answer her question?
Based on the terms lengths and the way members of the House and the Senate are elected, explain whether the Senate or the House is more male or female?*
In the comments section below list the first year you believe the U.S. Congress will achieve gender parity and be 50% female:
*Visual Extension
*There are 7 Democratic House Members named John or Mike. Believe me, I read the entire list.
*Fun Fact-The following House members first names are real:
Xochitl
Ro
Pramila
Raja
Larson, John B. (average name, above average hair)
Chellie
C. A. Dutch
Gregorio Kilili Camacho
Steny H.
and
Jesus G. "Chuy"
