9 Female Activists that every Woman should know about.
Female activism is hardly a new topic. Throughout history countless of incredible women have risen up to challenge and fight for equal rights, justice, and freedom. Their tireless efforts have paved the way for the progress we now experience and inspired many generations. Though there are hundreds of women we could name, these 10 women mean a lot to us at Galene, as a company that wholeheartedly support women, we see an importance in you remembering these women’s names. Their immense courage, resilience, and dedication have left or are leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Susan B. Anthony & the National American Woman Suffrage Association
Susan B. Anthony, an American social rights activist, dedicated her life to advocating for women's suffrage, equal rights, and the abolition of slavery. Alongside Elizabeth Cady Stanton, she played a pivotal role in forming the National American Woman Suffrage Association. Anthony's relentless efforts finally bore fruit with the passage of the 19th Amendment, known as the Susan B. Anthony Amendment.
Betty Friedan & Second Wave Feminism
As the author of "The Feminine Mystique", Betty Friedan ignited the second wave of feminism with her groundbreaking work. She co-founded the National Organisation for Women (NOW) and organised the Women's Strike for Equality, a historic event that propelled the feminist movement forward around the world.
Wangari Maathai & a Feminist Approach to Environmentalism
Wangari Maathai, was the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, founded the Green Belt Movement. This environmental organisation focused on tree planting, conservation, and women's rights, aiming to combat deforestation, hunger, and water crises in Africa. It’s now one of the most well known grassroots organisations to be combating deforestation.
Gloria Steinem & Feminist Journalism
A renowned feminist, journalist, and activist, Gloria Steinem co-founded Ms. magazine and has always been a tireless advocate for women's liberation and social justice. Her writings and speeches, such as the one she gave in 1971 at the founding of the National Women’s Political Caucus, have pushed the women's movement forward, inspiring women to find their voices.
Asieh Amini & Female Rights in Iran
Asieh Amini, an Iranian activist and journalist, has dedicated her life to fighting against the death penalty of stoning women in Iran. Her campaign ‘Stop Stoning Forever’ that started in 2006, led her to use her journalist background and report everything she could on the issue. Her raising awareness and pressuring authorities have saved the lives of many women, leading to threats that forced her to continue her work from Norway.
Rashmi Misra & Indian Women’s Education
Rashmi Misra recognised the shortcomings in India's education system, particularly for girls, who were often excluded from this privilege. In response, she established schools in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa to provide free education and empower young girls with entrepreneurial skills through her organisation, Vidya schools. These schools have been running for 35 years, and have helped countless Indian women obtain education and escape traditionalist social boundaries.
Nanfu Wang & Sexual Violence in China
Nanfu Wang, a Chinese activist and filmmaker, has fearlessly documented the efforts of activists against sexual violence in China. Despite government surveillance and restrictions, she used covert cameras to capture footage and shed light on these important issues. Her debut film, ‘Hooligan Sparrow’, about the chinese activists was shortlisted for the academy award for best documentary.
Safa al Ahmad & Women’s Rights in Saudi Arabia
Safa al Ahmad, a Saudi Arabian activist, defied gender oppression and filmed peaceful uprisings in Saudi Arabia during the Arab Spring. By smuggling her footage out of the country, she created the documentary "Saudi's Secret Uprising" which focused on Uprisings in the Middle East, of which won many awards. She has become a vocal advocate for women's rights for her country.
Liya Kebede & Maternal Care
Supermodel Liya Kebede, through her foundation, focuses on improving maternal healthcare in Africa. She has served as a WHO’s ambassador for maternal, newborn and child health since 2005. By training health workers to ensure safe births, she addresses the critical issue of complications during pregnancy and childbirth that claim the lives of nearly 800 women every day.
These stories demonstrate the unwavering determination, courage, and resilience of women who fight for social justice. Their legacies in supporting women’s rights and freedom continue to inspire women around the world to stand up, speak out and create positive change. By learning about their remarkable contributions, we can honour their work, continue support those who do the same, and strive for a more equal and just society for all.
