Second wave feminism

Definition

Second wave feminism refers to the period of feminist activism that emerged in the 1960s and continued into the 1980s, focusing on a broader range of issues beyond the suffrage movement. This wave aimed to address inequalities in areas such as workplace rights, reproductive rights, and sexuality, highlighting the intersection of gender with race, class, and sexuality. It played a crucial role in shaping the modern feminist movement and included diverse voices that sought to advocate for the rights of all women.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second wave feminism emerged as a response to the limitations of first-wave feminism, which primarily focused on women's suffrage.
2. Key events that marked this wave included the establishment of organizations like the National Organization for Women (NOW) in 1966.
3. This wave emphasized issues such as workplace discrimination, sexual liberation, and reproductive rights, advocating for laws against gender discrimination.
4. Intersectionality became an important concept during this period, as activists highlighted how race, class, and sexuality affected women's experiences.
5. The activism of second wave feminists laid the groundwork for future feminist movements and discussions about gender equality.

Review Questions

• How did second wave feminism expand the focus of the feminist movement compared to first-wave feminism?
  • Second wave feminism expanded the focus of the feminist movement by addressing a wider array of issues beyond just women's suffrage. While first-wave feminists primarily fought for voting rights, second wave activists brought attention to social injustices such as workplace discrimination, reproductive rights, and sexual liberation. This shift allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of women's issues, recognizing that gender inequality intersected with other forms of oppression.
• In what ways did the Combahee River Collective contribute to the principles of second wave feminism?
  • The Combahee River Collective was significant in contributing to second wave feminism by emphasizing the importance of intersectionality. They highlighted how race, class, and sexual orientation intersect with gender to create unique experiences of oppression for Black women. Their statement asserted that the liberation of all oppressed people is essential for true feminist progress, thereby enriching second wave feminism with a broader understanding of how different identities shape experiences.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of second wave feminism on contemporary discussions surrounding gender equality.
  • The long-term impacts of second wave feminism on contemporary discussions surrounding gender equality are profound and multifaceted. It not only broadened the definition of feminism to include diverse voices and experiences but also set in motion legislative changes such as Title IX and advancements in reproductive rights. Today, many ongoing debates about workplace equality, sexual harassment, and reproductive health can trace their roots back to the activism and ideas championed during this era. The legacy of second wave feminists continues to inspire new generations to advocate for comprehensive gender justice.

Related terms

Equal Rights Amendment (ERA): A proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution aimed at guaranteeing equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex.

Betty Friedan: An influential feminist author and activist, best known for her book 'The Feminine Mystique,' which is often credited with sparking the second wave of feminism in the United States.

Reproductive Rights: The legal rights and freedoms relating to reproduction and reproductive health, including access to contraception and abortion.