Sexism

* Re “First Lady Gets a Big Boot in Big Apple,” Dec. 12: I read with a mixture of consternation and amusement the article about Hillary Clinton being kicked out of the University Club in New York. It is a reminder that despite our progress we have a long way to go.

The story brings back memories of being a young lawyer, excited about an interview with a prominent Los Angeles law firm. I was taken to a posh downtown club where I was asked to use a separate elevator because “ladies are not allowed in the main elevator.” That was 18 years ago. Despite the fact that to some the incident concerning the first lady is not “a big deal,” it is a poignant reminder that sexism and racism are still very much alive in our country.

ERICA TABACHNICK

Los Angeles