Hi all!
For this column I decided to look at quotes depicting women and feminism. I did this for two reasons: firstly, many women before my time have put things much more eloquently than I could, and secondly I think it’s an interesting way to see how feminism is expressed and remembered in witty one liners. Let them entertain you, and I challenge you to question which of these are relevant to you and your society. What are you not comfortable tolerating? Many of these were written well over 20 years ago, yet are applicable to our community today.
Any woman whose I.Q. hovers above her body temperature must be a feminist. – Rita Mae Brown
When we talk about equal pay for equal work, women in the workplace are beginning to catch up. If we keep going at this current rate, we will achieve full equality in about 475 years. I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait that long. – Lya Sorano
I am a woman above everything else. – Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Women do not have to sacrifice personhood if they are mothers. They do not have to sacrifice motherhood in order to be persons. Liberation was meant to expand women’s opportunities, not to limit them. The self-esteem that has been found in new pursuits can also be found in mothering. – Elaine Heffner
Does feminism mean a large unpleasant person who’ll shout at you or someone who believes women are human beings. To me it’s the latter, so I sign up. – Margaret Atwood
I myself have never been able to find out precisely what feminism is: I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat, or a prostitute. – Rebecca West 1913
Women need not always keep their mouths shut and their wombs open. – Emma Goldman
The history of all times, and of today especially, teaches that … women will be forgotten if they forget to think about themselves. – Louise Otto
Some leaders are born women. – Unknown
Remember, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards and in high heels. – Faith Whittlesey
Last but not least, I am compelled by sisterhood to include a quote from the overexposed avengers of girl power: “Feminism has become a dirty word. Girl Power is just a 90’s way of saying it. We can give feminism a kick up the arse. Women can be so powerful when they show solidarity.” – Spice Girls
I hope this provides you with something to think about this week. As students we are compelled to question our society’s standards of justice. As female students we are challenged to celebrate our successes while still fighting against the injustices in our world. Don’t settle for the status quo.
I am excited to announce the coolest new addition to the Internet: the Women’s Fest MySpace page! This has been created to keep you up to date on all our plans and allow you all to let Ali and myself know what you want there. URL: http://www.myspace.com/womensfest. All the kids are talking about it, be in quick to add to your favourites!
Lots of love,
Gabbie x x