Second Wave Feminism

Definition

Second wave feminism refers to the feminist movement that emerged in the 1960s and continued into the 1980s, focusing on a broad range of issues including equality in the workplace, reproductive rights, and the societal role of women. This wave sought to address systemic inequalities that had persisted despite the legal gains of first-wave feminism, which primarily focused on suffrage. It highlighted how race, gender, and class intersected, recognizing that women's experiences and oppression could differ significantly based on these identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second wave feminism emerged in the United States during the 1960s as a response to social injustices and inequalities faced by women.
2. Key issues addressed included workplace discrimination, reproductive rights, sexual autonomy, and challenging traditional gender roles.
3. Prominent events like the publication of 'The Feminine Mystique' by Betty Friedan and the formation of organizations like the National Organization for Women (NOW) were pivotal during this period.
4. This wave of feminism also emphasized the importance of consciousness-raising groups, where women shared personal experiences to highlight systemic issues.
5. The movement led to significant legislative changes such as the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and Title IX, which opened doors for women in various sectors.

Review Questions

• How did second wave feminism build upon the achievements of first-wave feminism?
  • Second wave feminism built upon first-wave feminism by addressing issues beyond voting rights, such as workplace equality, reproductive rights, and broader social roles for women. While first-wave feminists focused mainly on legal rights like suffrage, second-wave feminists recognized that true equality involved challenging cultural norms and systemic barriers that impacted women's lives in diverse ways. This shift broadened the feminist agenda to include economic and social justice.
• In what ways did second wave feminism address the intersections of race, gender, and class?
  • Second wave feminism highlighted how race, gender, and class intersected to affect women's experiences differently. Women of color and working-class women often faced unique challenges that were overlooked by mainstream feminist movements focused primarily on middle-class white women. This recognition led to a more inclusive dialogue within feminism that sought to amplify marginalized voices and address specific needs related to race and economic status.
• Evaluate the impact of second wave feminism on modern feminist movements and societal attitudes toward gender equality.
  • The impact of second wave feminism on modern feminist movements is profound, as it laid the groundwork for ongoing advocacy for gender equality. Its focus on intersectionality has influenced contemporary feminist discourse, emphasizing that women's experiences are shaped by multiple identities. Additionally, societal attitudes have shifted significantly due to second wave achievements in legislation and cultural awareness around women's rights. This legacy continues to inspire new generations of feminists who build on these foundational ideas while addressing current issues such as transgender rights and global feminism.

Related terms

Intersectionality: A concept developed by Kimberlé Crenshaw that examines how different aspects of a person's identity, such as race, gender, and class, interact and contribute to unique experiences of oppression and privilege.

Title IX: A federal law enacted in 1972 that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance, significantly impacting women's participation in sports and education.

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