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