Curatorial Statement
Local Liberation focuses on the documented waves of feminism in America but pinpoints how they were experienced specifically in Arizona. By focusing on Arizona, visitors feel a sense of identity and representation in the exhibit allowing them to also feel more personally affected. For the ease of reading, the exhibit has been structured in a chronological fashion beginning with the 19th century first wave, up until present day. The exhibit moves gradually through the 4 waves of feminism, explaining them foundationally, and including archival items to help gives visitors a better idea as to what the wave looked like, focused on and how it was perceived socially.
A strong focal point in the exhibit is the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and the role it plays within the feminist movement, as well as the work that is still necessary for the ERA. There is a page within the exhibit dedicated solely to the ERA since it received so much attention both good and bad when introduced, and on this page visitors will be able to see the arguments from both sides as well as selected commentaries from Arizona government officials who worked closely with the ERA. In a sense the exhibit prompts visitors to take the next step and show their support for the Equal Rights Amendment which has yet to be ratified in Arizona, should they choose to. If not, they are free to walk away from the exhibit simply with just with a bit more understanding of the four feminist waves of the past, present and potential future.
Local Liberation provides an educational space allowing visitors to learn about the feminist history in America (specifically Arizona), knowing the information is credible as well as derived from primary sources. It encourages visitors to think for themselves in regards to feminism and create their own, educated idea as to what the feminist label means to them based on how it has transformed since its birth in 1848.
Curated and Presented by Faith Cooksey