Riding the Wave of Change – A Quick Overview in the History of Equal Rights

First Wave Feminism| Late 19^th-Early 20^th Century: Dealing with property rights and the right to vote for women. In its early stages, feminism was tied to temperance and abolitionist movements, giving voice to now-famous Sojourner Truth and Elizabeth Cady Stanton who were integral through art and action in advancing women’s rights.

Second Wave Feminism| 1960-90: Focused on equality and anti-discrimination. This wave is most often associated with protests and ‘increasingly radical’ ideas. Bringing attention to women’s sexuality and reproductive rights while also advocating for anti-war and civil rights of minority groups. Gloria Steinem and Dorothy Pittman Hughes enriched the second wave with poignant truths that propel thoughts and principles of equality today.

Third Wave Feminism| Mid 1990-2000’s: This wave emerged as a backlash to the second wave’s perceived privileging of white, straight women. “Universal womanhood” was shelved and an intersectional approach to women’s experiences pushed this movement forward with subjective thinking and an empowering message for women, rather than the victimhood narrative.

Fourth Wave Feminism| 2012-NOW: It’s safe to say we are in it! The use of technology and continued intersectionality defines our current times in the effort to eliminate gendered norms and marginalization of all women and people. No matter how you act on the equal treatment and opportunity of women and girls, thank you for being a part of this wave of change.