Why did we call ourselves 'Dykes of Mercy'?
When we started our giving stokvel a year ago, we had a discussion, filled with laughter, about what to call ourselves. We are all strong, outspoken, opinionated women (and one man!) with a sense of humour, and when we talked about what we would call ourselves, we wanted something that would be light-hearted, something that would reflect who we are.
We decided on Dykes of Mercy because it is a play on Angels of Mercy - and because the acronym: DoM, spells a word in afrikaans that means stupid, and is short for domination - funny eh? (no?Ah well, that's okay..) We made t-shirts for last year's pride march that read " I am a DOM"... (geddit?!) we got lots of interest from our fellow marchers and it gave us an opportunity to explain the concept of a giving stokvel.
If you think our name doesnt work, let us know by making a comment on this post. We wont entertain homophobia, but we will consider any other opinions. :-)
Sally
(Pictured is Claire and Robert - members of DoM)
posted by Dykes of Mercy @ 2:17 PM
8 Comments:
Did people complain about your name?
I think it is a wonderful gesture, and having a bit of humor in your groups name is spot-on! It is not patronising, or offensive in any way. If people find a few lesbians who give money to charity calling themselves "dykes of mercy" offensive, they've become far too PC for anybody's good.
Well done
I think it's an absolutely magical gesture!
There are a hell of a lot of needy people out there and if we could take just a portion of what we spend each month treating ourselves and give it to a worthy cause or deserving individual, we are making as much difference as what we can!!! And that's a nice thought to live with
I think it's fantastic and it must feel really great knowing you are helping people. As for the name if all those in the group are happy with it then leave it. If it's people within the group that are unhappy then ask for suggestions and do a vote.
- TigerEyes (Q)
If those in the group are happy with the name then don't worry about what people outside the group think.. it is what the group does that matter not the name.
Lickle One (Q)
great idea lyssa. not happy with the name though. if u were to call it 'dykes of mercy', you would find those that come into contact with the group might think it ok to refer to lesbians as dykes. if u are ok with that, then go for it. i say this as a result of the recent discussion about labelling.
- Guaop (Q)
Hmm well puting aside my all consuming bitterness at never being invited to be Ariels guest at a DOM meeting I do understand why people might consider the name to be a bit patronising but I think that is perhaps taking it all a bit to seriously, I think the name is funny and im sure it was never the intention to imply anything insulting or patronising. You do a great thing and help a great number of people and I really dont think ppl should get to hung up on a name.
-Sean Triubhs (Q)
i think its a brilliant name.
i am all for using "negative" names/words to create a positive image. I often deliberately use the words moffie/queer etc etc when chatting to friends.
- Voku (Q)
Hmmm - interesting that a lot of the comments have picked up on the dyke part, but few on the mercy... I do think that we can be perceived as being patronising, but then I think we need to explain the meaning of satire!
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