I really enjoyed Gloria Steinem’s comments, especially as it relates to the importance of not only racial diversity in policing, but gender diversity. The important dynamic that a female officer can bring to a scene/situation should not be overlooked. Definitely a thought provoking read, share your thoughts!
Source: John Lamparski / Getty
In a recent interview withBlack Enterprise, feminist journalist and activist Gloria Steinem had some refreshing things to say about Black women’s progressive history in the fight for gender equality.
“I thought that [Black women] invented the feminist movement…I learned feminism disproportionately from Black women. ”
Steinem explained that in earlier years, surveys showed that African American women were twice as vocal and biased towards feminist issues and beliefs as their White counterparts. She also spoke on her personal practice of giving the floor to other young women (whether or not they self-identify as feminists) to address concerns for people of varying socioeconomic backgrounds. If she is challenged by younger Black women who say that feminism doesn’t speak to them, Steinem says:
“I don’t say anything. I listen because the point is that we help each other to get dignity and autonomy and freedom. We’re here…
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I LOVED this. Gloria Steinem is a real hero of mine, especially after watching this interview. While my first exposure to feminism was from a white woman, it was through the works of Alice Walker, Toni Morrison, Julia Alvarez, Sandra Cisneros and countless others that REALLY cemented my feminist identity in high school. So, yes, I agree that I disproportionately learned about feminist from women of color.
“I don’t say anything, I listen” — WORDS TO LIVE BY! I definitely still need this reminder now and again. Same with the comment about women learning to treat themselves like they treat others.
And I have no idea why we’re not screening police officers for domestic violence! Seems like it should be automatic to me.
Cheyanne, I am so glad this resonated with you! There are so many life lessons that we need to remind each other of to keep each other strong. Our struggles are similar, and united we can accomplish so much more. Thank you for stopping by, have a great day!