With thanks to Paul Field.
Sexism and social class are inextricably linked, reflecting broader power dynamics and cultural norms within society. From workplace harassment to public figures defending retrograde behaviour as cultural expression, the interplay of class and sexism remains a topic of heated debate. The following examines these dynamics through the lens of recent controversies, including Greg Wallace’s public claims of victimhood, the implications of such defences, and how social class influences the perception and tolerance of sexism.
The Greg Wallace Conundrum
Greg Wallace, a television presenter known for his cheery persona and past as a greengrocer, has recently courted controversy by claiming he is a victim of classism. Wallace argues that his background as a market stall worker and his allegiance to Millwall Football Club place him in a marginalised position. However, such claims ring hollow when considering his substantial wealth, business ownerships, and celebrity status.
Wallace’s self-proclaimed barrow-boy authenticity appears as performative as Nigel Farage’s attempts to align himself with “the ordinary bloke” by donning a flat cap. Both men leverage stereotypes to project an image of working-class solidarity while living lives far removed from the struggles of the average working-class individual. This strategic alignment allows them to feign authenticity, deflect criticism, and silence detractors by accusing them of prejudice against their supposed humble origins.
The Problem with Defending Sexism as “Working-Class Vernacular”
Central to Wallace’s recent controversies is his defence of comments that many found sexist. He argues that his language is part of a working-class vernacular, as if channeling Sid James from Carry On films or Viz’s Sid the Sexist. This framing suggests that sexism is a cultural artefact of working-class communities; a deeply flawed and damaging narrative.
Sexism and sexual harassment are not class-bound behaviours. While cultural expressions vary, the dismissal of sexist behaviour as “working-class banter” perpetuates harmful stereotypes about working-class people. It also risks normalising misogyny by wrapping it in the guise of authenticity. Wallace’s argument not only trivialises the issue but also deflects attention from his personal accountability. By invoking class, he seeks to reframe himself as a victim rather than an aggressor.
The Role of Class in Challenging Sexism
Despite Wallace’s assertions, many working-class men and women actively challenge sexism and harassment. In working-class communities, where shared spaces and communal life foster accountability, inappropriate behaviour is often called out openly. This directness stands in contrast to the dynamics among the privileged, where power imbalances and institutional protection often shield perpetrators.
The case of Mohamed Al-Fayed serves as a stark example. As a wealthy and powerful individual, Al-Fayed faced allegations from numerous women, yet the systemic barriers to challenging such figures remain immense. Wealth and privilege often enable a culture of silence, where victims are discredited and perpetrators face little accountability. Wallace’s attempt to gaslight the experiences of 13 women illustrates this pattern. His lack of remorse and dismissive attitude underscores why many women are reluctant to come forward; a problem that transcends class boundaries.
Sexism Across Generations and Classes
A common misconception perpetuated by individuals like Wallace is that objections to sexism come predominantly from middle-class, middle-aged women. This narrative conveniently ignores the voices of young, working-class women who are equally, if not more, vocal in their opposition to misogyny. Social media platforms and grassroots movements have amplified these voices, demonstrating that resistance to sexism is widespread and intersectional.
Young working-class women often face the dual burden of gender and class discrimination, making their activism particularly significant. Their lived experiences reveal that sexism is not confined to specific environments or social strata; it is a pervasive issue that demands collective action.
The Broader Implications of Gaslighting Women’s Experiences
Wallace’s response to criticism exemplifies the tactic of gaslighting, where the experiences of victims are minimised or denied outright. This approach is deeply damaging, as it undermines the credibility of those who speak out and discourages others from doing the same. The speed with which Wallace dismissed the testimonies of 13 women reflects a broader societal problem: the tendency to protect influential men at the expense of justice for their victims.
Gaslighting is not unique to Wallace. It is a common strategy employed by those in positions of power to avoid accountability. By framing himself as misunderstood or maligned due to his class background, Wallace weaponises identity to shield himself from criticism. This tactic diverts attention from the harm caused and reframes the perpetrator as a victim, perpetuating a cycle of impunity.
Challenging Misogyny Requires Cross-Class Solidarity
Addressing sexism and classism requires recognising their interconnectedness and building solidarity across social divides. Misogyny thrives in environments where power disparities are unchecked, whether in the boardroom or the pub. Similarly, class prejudice perpetuates stereotypes that hinder collective progress.
Public figures like Wallace have a responsibility to model accountability rather than deflection. Instead of perpetuating harmful stereotypes or dismissing valid criticism, they should use their platforms to advocate for change. The fight against sexism is not about vilifying one group or class but about dismantling the structures that enable inequality and abuse.
Greg Wallace’s claims of victimhood highlight the complex interplay between class and sexism in modern society. His attempts to defend sexist behaviour as working-class vernacular perpetuate damaging stereotypes and distract from the broader issue: the pervasive nature of misogyny across all social classes. While working-class communities often demonstrate greater willingness to confront inappropriate behaviour, systemic barriers protect the wealthy and privileged from similar scrutiny.
To challenge sexism effectively, society must reject narratives that trivialise or excuse harmful behaviour. Instead, we must foster an environment where accountability is prioritised, and all voices, regardless of class, are heard and respected. Only through collective action can we dismantle the cultural and structural inequalities that sustain sexism and classism alike.
