Second wave feminism

Definition

Second wave feminism refers to a period of feminist activism that emerged in the 1960s and continued into the 1980s, focusing on a broader range of issues beyond suffrage, including workplace rights, reproductive rights, and gender equality in all aspects of life. This wave sought to challenge systemic inequalities and cultural norms that perpetuated women's oppression, leading to significant social and political changes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second wave feminism expanded the scope of women's rights issues to include sexual liberation, family roles, and the right to work without discrimination.
2. Key events during this wave included the publication of influential books like 'The Feminine Mystique' by Betty Friedan, which critiqued the traditional roles of women in society.
3. The movement led to the establishment of organizations such as the National Organization for Women (NOW) in 1966, which aimed to advocate for women's rights on a national level.
4. Second wave feminism also played a crucial role in legal reforms, resulting in significant changes such as the legalization of abortion in many countries and improved workplace protections against discrimination.
5. Cultural impacts included shifts in media representation of women and increased awareness of issues like domestic violence and sexual harassment.

Review Questions

• How did second wave feminism differ from the first wave in its goals and strategies?
  • Second wave feminism differed from the first wave primarily in its broader focus on social, political, and cultural issues rather than just suffrage. While the first wave was mainly concerned with women's right to vote and legal equality, the second wave addressed issues like reproductive rights, workplace equality, and personal freedom. This shift led to diverse strategies including grassroots organizing, consciousness-raising groups, and advocacy for legislative changes that aimed to transform societal norms around gender.
• Discuss the impact of second wave feminism on legislation related to women’s rights during its active years.
  • Second wave feminism significantly impacted legislation concerning women's rights by advocating for laws that addressed workplace discrimination, reproductive health, and family leave. The push for the Equal Rights Amendment sought constitutional guarantees for gender equality. Activists also influenced policies leading to landmark decisions such as Roe v. Wade in 1973, which granted women the right to choose abortion, marking a critical victory for reproductive rights advocates.
• Evaluate the lasting effects of second wave feminism on contemporary discussions about gender equality.
  • The lasting effects of second wave feminism are evident in contemporary discussions about gender equality as it laid the groundwork for ongoing activism and legal advancements. Issues such as pay equity, reproductive rights, and sexual harassment continue to be central topics today. Furthermore, the frameworks developed during this period influenced subsequent movements like third wave feminism and intersecting movements focusing on race, class, and sexuality. This legacy is crucial in understanding how feminist theories evolve and respond to new challenges facing women globally.

Related terms

Equal Rights Amendment:

A proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution that aimed to guarantee equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex.

Women’s Liberation Movement: A social movement that emerged alongside second wave feminism, advocating for women's rights and liberation from societal constraints.

Reproductive Rights:

Rights related to reproductive health, including access to contraception and abortion services, which became key issues during second wave feminism.