VOICES

by Yoly Tumangan Tubalinal.
February 14, 2011
VOICES is a new column which will alternate with “The Write Connection” on this page. The idea is to get the MegaScene readers into the habit of putting their two cents worth on issues that currently capture the imagination and fancy of people who care about what happens in their community, country and around the world. By its name, VOICES seeks to promote diversity of opinions and hopes to inspire the silent, muffled voices to come out into the open and dare to be heard. It’s a challenge I expect to be answered
The subject I have picked for this maiden issue of VOICES, though light, is relevant because it focuses on the U.S. First Lady, Michelle Obama, whose works, words and image can impact not only American women but women all over the world.

The Issue
First Lady Michelle Obama was criticized by one of the biggest names in U.S. fashion, Oscar de la Renta for wearing a dress by a British designer at the state dinner honoring Chinese President Hu Jintao.
De la Renta told Womens Daily, “my understanding is that the visit was to promote American-Chinese trade — American products in China and Chinese products in America. Why do you wear European clothes?”
He added, “Some people did not get the point. It’s not [intended] to be negative. Do you think Kate Middleton is going to be married in Marc Jacobs? Or you’d see Carla Bruni dressing in American clothes? This is a big industry in this country. Mrs. Obama does look great. She should take that and do something. She could do a great good for our industry. We need to create jobs here, create jobs on Seventh Avenue, too.”
The First Lady’s response:
“Women, wear what you love. That’s all I can say. That’s my motto. It’s nice to have on a nice suit, but it’s a lot nicer to change a generation in terms of their health. It’s a lot…better use of my time to focus on rallying this country around our military families,” Mrs. Obama said.
“I mean, there’s so much that I hope to do in this role that makes a difference in people’s lives.”
Question: Is dela Renta right about functions or should he leave the First Lady alone since it’s a personal choice and as she had said, “Women wear what you love.”?

Their Take
I agree with the First Lady’s statement “wear what you love”.  She probably didn’t have any “Made in China” in her closet that is appropriate for the occasion.  She looked stunning in that red gown and isn’t that what most people expect of a First Lady – any time, anywhere?  She wears what makes her feel good.  Nobody has the right to question her who she is wearing.  After all, it is her husband who ran for office not her.
I do support her on focusing more time on issues that make a difference in people’s lives.  Go Girl!
Ting Joven
Former Mrs. Philippines, FACC, Writer & Community Leader
Michelle Obama has great taste for fashion and carries them well.  I like her choices to date.  I agree with her that women wear what they love to wear; and they make their choices on how it fits them and looks on them.  Not on the basis of whether it promotes trade between countries.  This guy quoted knows absolutely nothing about trade between US and China.  And less even about US and European trade.  Wonder if he knows how much the trade deficit is between US, China and EU.

Juanita Burris
Board President of AFIRE, and community organizer for Get-out-the-vote for Filipino Americans for the Feb. 22 Chicago mayoral elections.

Mrs. Obama should have worn an American designer outfit. I guess she is living up to what she said before she became a U.S. President’s wife about being “proud of America.”

Dely Villalon
Nurse, Community Leader, former Beauty Queen

Michelle’s words and actions are conflicting. I see her more in fashion mags than with her military family projects. She needs to roll up her sleeves and be true to her words.

Fely Bayona
Independent Reliv Distributor, Past President of Toastmasters Club

My Take
Fashion is a personal taste and style and women must be given the choice to wear what feels good for them. But as First Lady, Michelle Obama’s actions, words and image reflect on her husband, who is the President of a powerful country. Thus, she must make some concessions when it comes to her personal choices.
Having been widely recognized as a fashion icon with a powerful sense of style, she can be a great advocate for American designers. Really, she can give these artists a boost in the highly competitive world of fashion.
Besides, buying U.S. goods is a policy initiative of President Obama’s administration. A component of his signature economic stimulus legislation, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, advocates for buying U.S. products with stimulus funds.
This is not to say that Mrs. Obama’s other worthwhile projects don’t count. They very well do. But this is another cause she can very easily uphold without making any effort. Besides, our American designers are just as talented as those European fashion gurus if not more talented, don’t you think?