Sally Roesch Wagner with Gloria Steinem, Louise Herne, and Carol Jenkins: a Discussion on Feminism
On International Women’s Day, this past Friday, the Schools of Public Engagement at The New School co-hosted an event with The Strand Bookstore as part of the centennial celebration.
In honor of Women’s History Month, renowned political activist Gloria Steinem, feminist scholar Sally Roesch Wagner, Emmy-award winning writer/producer Carol Jenkins, and third-generation Mohawk Bear Clan Mother Louise Wakerakats:se Herne discussed intersectional feminism and its role in the telling of history with panel moderator, Jessica Bennett, the first gender editor of The New York Times.
As these women told their stories, each helped to debunk some of the most persistent myths about women’s history such as the fact that “feminist bra-burning” never actually happened and how white women have never been at the forefront of the feminist movement. Steinem encouraged modern feminists to study works by women of color involved in all feminist waves to ensure their voices are equally heard. Jenkins also said that “the movement for equality for women is essentially a women of color movement” to which the crowd applauded wildly.
They found it especially important to highlight the power of Native American women. Native women have been autonomous for centuries, and have had equal say in their societies both in the past and presently.
In conversation with a BPATS student, Taylor Syfan, after the event, Syfan says, “Wagner and Steinem were joined by a stellar group of women who each approached the night’s discussion in valuably unique ways. Facilitating the event was NYT’s first ever gender editor who’s light-hearted prompts allowed the evening to shift organically between laughter, tenderness, and grave seriousness. I believe it was palpable that Steinem — the idyllic star of the group — had drawn a great deal of the crowd. Her insight and energy certainly did not disappoint. But, it was Wagner’s incredible thesis on rewriting the myopic history which we are often told about first-wave feminism that enlightened the discourse. The evening cannot be properly summarized without mention of Louise Hern; She spoke powerfully and earnestly about the history of gender structures in native cultures, and she offered beautiful wisdoms to young generations in the vein of eco-feminism.”
In her parting statement, Steinem said, “If you’re in a group and you have more power than other people, you have to remember to listen as much as you talk,” she said. “And if you have less power, to talk as much as you listen.”
As we look forward to the rest of Women’s History Month, it is important to consider how best to keep the momentum of this intersectional feminist moment. Consider the impact you’re making in your lives. Analyze your behaviors; are you making space for the marginalized around you? Are you taking back the narrative? Think about the legacy we will leave on this planet. Herne said, “It’s not about what you gain in this life, it’s about what you’re going to leave behind.”
