Gloria Steinem Legislative Lunch

Ann Cooper

October 22, 2012

WST4022

Meredith Tweed

Gloria Steinem Legislative Lunch

            Gloria Steinem is seen by many as the leader of the feminist movement in America.  A journalist, author, social and political activist, teacher, and a woman she has been able to use her voice to speak for those whose voices are not heard.  After attending the universities legislative lunch my biggest take away was an answer to a question posed by an audience member: “We can find our feminist identity in our own way.” 

            As a young female with a desire to understand and help other females I enrolled in the Women’s Studies program to give myself a broader view of the plight of the female.  I felt it was important for me to be able to think outside the box and gain a different perspective other than my own.  Interestingly, in a program that it is set to reach all women and not just middle class white women, I did not know where I fit.  Should I be ashamed of the opportunities that I’d been given?  Do I have the right to have an opinion on other’s issues and troubles?  Am I a feminist?

            A year and a half of wondering was answered simply and succinctly by Ms. Steinem.  Of course I am.  I may not “look” like the stereotypical feminist, but that’s good because feminism to me means fighting stereotypes; what does a feminist look like anyways?  I may not have, or always comprehend, the “answers”, but that’s okay because I’m not there to provide the answers but to ask the questions.  Isn’t that what it’s about, asking the questions?

            Arriving on Friday I was appreciative of the opportunity to hear from Ms. Steinem and curious as to what she would share.  I left with a surprisingly new perspective.  I’ve been trying to figure out how to fit myself into a “box” and struggling.  Instead, I can now spend that energy working on creating my own feminist identity.