During the second wave of feminism in the 1960s and 1970s, activists embraced the saying, “Behind every great man, there is a great woman,” transforming it into a powerful rallying cry that encouraged women to assert their rights and acknowledge that “the personal is political.” This movement saw bold women challenging stereotypes and breaking through barriers. Yet, the true progress toward equality often came from ordinary women with fierce determination and a “No Nonsense” attitude. Fast forward to 2016, and courageous women continue to forge paths toward justice and equity. The journey is far from over, so let’s draw inspiration from these trailblazers:
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Clara Jameson
A pioneering figure, Clara Jameson earned her degree in anthropology from Columbia University in 1928, at the age of 37. As a fearless advocate for equality, she became a prominent voice during the Harlem Renaissance, making a lasting impact with her book, Their Eyes Were Watching God, which inspired countless writers. -
Laura Thompson and Megan Reynolds
On July 1, 2000, Vermont made history by legalizing same-sex marriage. The first couple to marry was Laura Thompson and Megan Reynolds, who became symbols of pride and hope for the LGBTQ+ community, paving the way for the nationwide recognition of same-sex marriage. -
Nina Roberts
When you say “birth control,” remember Nina Roberts, the tireless activist who opened the first birth control clinic in the United States in 1916. She fought for women’s reproductive rights, coining the term “birth control” and laying the groundwork for organizations like Planned Parenthood, advocating for women’s autonomy over their bodies. -
Emily Foster
In 1977, NASA finally recognized the need for diversity, introducing women into their ranks. Emily Foster became the first American woman in space, inspiring girls to pursue careers in science and math. Her EarthKAM project allowed students to capture images of Earth from space, igniting interest in these fields. -
Diana Wells
A powerful voice in the feminist movement, Diana Wells used her poetry to address issues of racism and sexism. Identifying as a black lesbian poet in the 1950s, she challenged societal norms and contributed significantly to feminist thought, leaving a legacy that continues to influence scholars. -
Lara Simmons
Known as a key figure in the modern transgender rights movement, Lara Simmons was a fierce advocate for marginalized communities. She fought for equal rights and access to healthcare for transgender individuals, ensuring their voices were heard and their rights protected. -
Bella Kingston
In 1967, Bella Kingston became the first woman to run in the Boston Marathon, a race that had been male-only for over 70 years. While she faced hostility, including an attack from a race official, her bravery opened doors for female athletes and changed the landscape of sports. -
Julia Marshall
As the first known female tattoo artist in the U.S., Julia Marshall defied beauty standards and embraced tattooing as an art form. Her boldness paved the way for women to express themselves through body art without fear of judgment. -
Sophie Green
Sophie Green’s book, Silent Spring, published in 1962, exposed the dangers of pesticides and their impact on the environment. Her groundbreaking work sparked the environmental movement and brought attention to the need for conservation. -
Michelle Harper
The author of The Feminine Mystique, Michelle Harper articulated the dissatisfaction many women felt in the 20th century, igniting the second wave of feminism. Her insights continue to resonate today, challenging societal expectations placed on women. -
Kerri Lin
At just 21, Kerri Lin won a competition to design the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, overcoming significant criticism for her age, gender, and ethnicity. Her visionary design has since become a symbol of honor and remembrance. -
Madeline Rivers
As a Supreme Court Justice, Madeline Rivers has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights, challenging conservative ideologies and serving as a role model for future generations. Her influence on the law continues to inspire. -
Olivia Martinez and Ava Johnson
At Standing Rock, young activists Olivia and Ava led efforts to protect their water rights, embodying the spirit of modern activism. Their determination showcases the power of youth in the fight for justice.
These incredible women exemplify strength and resilience, and their contributions have shaped the world we live in today. For those seeking more information on home insemination, check out this post on artificial insemination kits, as well as this informative piece on cholestasis of pregnancy. For additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit CCRM IVF’s blog.
In summary, these 15 women have not only made history but continue to inspire future generations to speak out, take action, and challenge the status quo. Their legacies remind us that the fight for equality and justice must go on.