Second-wave feminism

Definition

Second-wave feminism refers to the feminist movement that emerged in the United States during the 1960s and continued into the 1980s, focusing on a broader range of issues beyond the right to vote, including workplace equality, reproductive rights, and social inequalities. This wave sought to address systemic gender discrimination and aimed for changes in laws and societal norms that marginalized women.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second-wave feminism significantly expanded the focus from first-wave feminism by addressing issues like sexuality, family roles, and reproductive rights, rather than just suffrage.
2. This wave led to significant legal changes, including the establishment of laws against workplace discrimination and sexual harassment.
3. The publication of influential works such as Betty Friedan's 'The Feminine Mystique' in 1963 helped ignite the second wave by challenging traditional gender roles.
4. Grassroots activism became a hallmark of second-wave feminism, with organizations like the National Organization for Women (NOW) leading campaigns for women's rights.
5. The movement also faced criticisms and challenges from within, particularly regarding its inclusivity and representation of women of color and working-class women.

Review Questions

• How did second-wave feminism expand the goals of earlier feminist movements?
  • Second-wave feminism broadened the goals of earlier movements by tackling a wider array of issues beyond suffrage, such as workplace equality, reproductive rights, and social injustices. This expansion allowed feminists to challenge not only legal barriers but also cultural norms that reinforced gender inequality. By addressing these various aspects of women's lives, second-wave feminism sought comprehensive societal change.
• Analyze how publications like 'The Feminine Mystique' influenced public perception and policy regarding women's rights during the second wave.
  • 'The Feminine Mystique' played a critical role in shaping public perception by exposing the dissatisfaction many women felt with traditional domestic roles. Betty Friedan's insights resonated widely, prompting discussions about women's place in society and highlighting the need for equality. This growing awareness contributed to policy changes as lawmakers began to recognize the importance of addressing gender disparities in various sectors.
• Evaluate the legacy of second-wave feminism in shaping contemporary discussions around gender equality and social justice.
  • The legacy of second-wave feminism is evident in contemporary discussions around gender equality, where many principles introduced during this movement remain central to ongoing activism. Issues like reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, and intersectionality are still relevant today. The movement laid a foundation for future waves of feminism by emphasizing the need for systemic change and inspiring new generations to advocate for social justice on behalf of all marginalized groups.

Related terms

equal pay: The principle that men and women should receive equal compensation for equal work, a key issue highlighted during the second wave.

reproductive rights: The legal rights of women to access reproductive health care, including birth control and abortion, which became central issues in second-wave feminism.

Title IX: A federal law passed in 1972 that prohibits gender discrimination in educational programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.