An Australian news channel is facing criticism after altering an image of a female state MP to enlarge her breasts and expose her midriff. The photo of Georgie Purcell appeared in a Nine News bulletin after she criticized the Victorian government’s rejection of a duck hunting ban.
Ms. Purcell posted the original and altered images to social media, highlighting the editing of her outfit. Nine News apologized, claiming that “automation by Photoshop” was to blame.
Ms. Purcell, the youngest woman in the state’s parliament, has frequently spoken out against the treatment of women in Australian politics. In response to the altered image, she stated that Monday was the worst day she had endured since being elected in 2022. She emphasized that the constant sexualization and objectification of women in politics sends a negative message to young women and girls.
Responding to the backlash, Nine News Melbourne boss Hugh Nailon issued an “unreserved” apology. He explained that the image was resized to fit their specifications, and the automation by Photoshop created an inconsistent image that did not meet their editorial standards.
The error has sparked widespread backlash against Nine News, with Ms. Purcell calling it an unacceptable representation of any woman, especially one holding public office. Last year, she made headlines for wearing an outfit to parliament that was covered in examples of sexist abuse she receives online. Additionally, she has spoken about working as a stripper to support herself through law school.
In recent years, Australian politics has been grappling with a prevailing sexist culture, with a landmark 2021 report finding that a third of employees in federal parliament had experienced sexual harassment.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges that women in politics face and the need for greater respect and equality in the public sphere.
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