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In our fifth season kickoff, we’re reflecting on our podcast journey and revamping our format with shorter episodes and more frequent Feminist Corner discussions. We’re starting with a dive into the history of feminism, from its origins in the 1880s to the waves that shaped its evolution. We’ll explore key moments like the Seneca Falls Convention, the rise of womanism, and the emergence of intersectionality in third-wave feminism. Join us as we unpack the diverse subtypes of feminism and challenge stereotypes, inviting listeners to explore where they fit within this dynamic movement.

Feminist Corner:

• What are qualms people have with the concept of waves of feminism?
• With the word Feminist being a kind of loaded word, what would you say to someone who doesn’t want to call themselves a feminist?
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Listen to the episode, discuss these questions with friends and family, let us know what you think!

Show Notes:

• Origins of Feminism:
  • Feminism coined in France in the 1880s, derived from “femme” (French for woman) and “isme” (referring to social movement or political ideology). 
  • It quickly spread throughout Europe by the 1890s and reached North and South America by 1910, with controversy surrounding its implications.
• First Wave Feminism (Late 19th to Early 20th Century):
  • The inaugural organized effort towards women’s rights in the United States commenced at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848, spearheaded by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. 
  • This historic event was catalyzed by the quest for suffrage and legal rights. 
  • However, the movement’s racial biases were evident, as seen in the exclusion of prominent Black feminists like Sojourner Truth and Ida B. Wells.
• Second Wave Feminism (1960s – 1980s):
  • Betty Friedan’s groundbreaking publication, “The Feminine Mystique” (1963), played a pivotal role in igniting the second wave of feminism. 
  • This phase of the movement, also known as Women’s Liberation, was marked by vigorous advocacy for reproductive rights, workplace equality, and the redefinition of traditional gender roles. 
  • Notably, the emergence of womanism as a more inclusive alternative underscored the need to address the intersecting oppressions faced by women of color.
• Third Wave Feminism (1990s):
  • The third wave of feminism brought a renewed emphasis on intersectionality, inclusivity, and diversity. Highlighting key events such as Anita Hill’s courageous testimony and the landmark “Year of the Woman” in Congress, this era witnessed a rebellious spirit against the stereotypes associated with second-wave feminism. 
  • Embracing girl culture and the Riot GRRRL movement, third-wave feminists wanted to redefine feminism on their terms, challenging conventional notions of femininity and activism.
• Fourth Wave Feminism (2000s – Present?):
  • With the advent of the internet and social media, feminism entered a new phase characterized by widespread connectivity and digital activism. 
  • The #MeToo movement, initiated by Tarana Burke in 2007 and amplified by revelations of sexual misconduct by powerful figures like Harvey Weinstein in 2017, exemplified the transformative power of online activism. 
  • Mass protests such as the Women’s Marches in response to political events underscored the continued relevance and impact of feminist activism in the digital age.
• Subtypes of Feminism:
  • Within the diverse landscape of feminist ideologies, several subtypes have emerged, each with its unique focus and approach. 
  • Liberal feminism advocates for equal rights through legal reforms, while radical feminism seeks to dismantle patriarchy at its roots. 
  • Black feminism centers the experiences of women of color, while intersectional feminism addresses overlapping oppressions. Postcolonial feminism critiques Western-centric perspectives, and queer feminism challenges heteronormativity within feminist discourse.
• Conclusion:
• A reminder to think critically and inclusively about feminist activism, asking “What about women?” and “What women?” to ensure a more comprehensive and equitable approach to gender justice.

Sources:

Al-Saji, A., & Botts, T. (2019). Feminism’s waves: A brief history of feminist theory. Vox. Retrieved from https://www.vox.com/2018/3/20/16955588/feminism-waves-explained-first-second-third-fourth

History.com. (n.d.). Feminism’s four waves. Retrieved from https://www.history.com/news/feminism-four-waves

MasterClass. (n.d.). Types of feminism: Understanding feminist theories and ideologies. Retrieved from https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-feminism

National Women’s History Museum. (n.d.). Feminism in the 21st century: Feminism’s fourth wave. Retrieved from https://www.womenshistory.org/exhibits/feminism-fourth-wave

Walker, R. (n.d.). No Turning Back: The History of Feminism and the Future of Women. [Book]. (Publication date not provided).

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