If you are one of those people who doesn't think sexism is alive and well in America, you are not paying attention to the reporting about Martha Stewart. How many men appear in court and have their facial muscle activity talked about on the evening news? Or their clothing critiqued? How many men who are convicted of crimes have panels appearing on television to talk about "what it's going to be like" for them?

The New York Times, that famous "liberal" newspaper, described Stewart as "former chairman and chief executive of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia." Why, oh why, in the 21st Century, is it so hard for the Times to remember that Stewart is a chairwoman? Inclusive language is not "politically correct"--it is common decency. If the Times called Michael Eisner "former chairwoman of Disney," he (and probably eveyone else) would have a fit.

Since America cannot afford women the courtesy of acknowledging their existence, I propose that from now on, all chairpeople be called "chairwomen," all spokespeople be called "spokeswomen," and--when you enter a room full of men, be sure to ask: "How are you gals doing?"