Remembering Important Women

Rate This

Photo: Getty Images

It's important to remember our history as women because we've come so far that many young women today have no idea what the feminist movement was or why it existed at all. They assume there were always lattes and iPhone apps, and have no visceral memory associated with not being allowed to vote, work, become educated, or leave an abusive relationship.

For so many women who do not live a liberated lifestyle, whether American or Middle Eastern, their empowerment is still a daily struggle. Battle rages here and abroad to determine things like being allowed equal pay for equal work, wearing one's preference of clothing, learning to drive, getting a legal divorce and getting a safe abortion.

Once in a while you should sit down with a friend, a loved one, or by yourself to pore over some important women in history. Remembering their pioneering work and spirit can renew your sense of strength and commitment in your own life, liberating you further or galvanizing you to take action to support others.

Amelia Earhardt, Ella Fitzgerald, George Sand, Christiane Amanpour, Gloria Steinem, Aretha Franklin, Fanny Lou Hamer, Sojourner Truth, Eleanor Roosevelt, Gertrude Stein, the list goes on and on. There are so many forces to be reckoned with out there that it is still possible for us to shape ourselves based on values of true role models who stand the test of time.

In a Kardashian world, it behooves us to look back and listen intently to echoing voices of brave women, authentic trail blazers. These were women who wanted to hear themselves sing, think, speak, and who had smiles that lit up the sky.

Aimee Boyle is a regular contributor to EmpowHER. She lives in CT with her family.

Edited by Shannon Koehle

Add a Comment1 Comments

Anonymous

Remember - 1893 - New Zealand was the very first country to grant the VOTE to WOMEN. It was many years later before the same happened in UK and USA. Women are climbing the ladder increasingly in New Zealand, but there is still much resistance by males in powerful positions as well as in families.
Equal pay is always an issue and though the gap has narrowed, it is still significant. Women must continue to demand equality of opportunity, promotion where deserved and equal pay for equivalent work.

July 26, 2011 - 2:10am

This Comment

Improved My Health
Changed My Life
Saved My Life

Add a Comment

Aimee Boyle View Profile Send Message

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.