Introduction
The topic of feminism is rarely given a proper platform where it can not only raise awareness but also educate about both the past and present of women’s history. There is a stigma that surrounds the feminist movement based on preconceived and poorly educated ideas...Women who label themselves as feminist are actually seen as less warm, and more hostile than those who share the same beliefs but forego the label. People assume that the label infers stronger beliefs and stronger beliefs are associated with aggression (Meijs, et. al., 2017). The label of “feminist” holds so much power and means something much different than what most people assume and potentially negatively evaluate. To be feminist means to believe in gender equality for all parties, at the core, unfortunately the concept is seen as much more radical and an opposition to men. Feminism is a topic not often discussed in education, furthermore, public education often focuses on male figures, leaving individuals questioning what efforts have been made by women throughout history...This exhibit aims to provide a platform for primary and secondary, reliable sources to tell the story of feminism efforts as experienced close to home, in Arizona, and how such efforts were viewed publicly.
Through a collection of images, interviews, and letters, including statements from previous senators Sandra Day O’Connor and Alfredo Gutierrez, this exhibit will give viewers the opportunity to look at different sides of the movement and make an educated decision for themselves, of what feminism means to them, based on primary resources rather than faulty information that commonly leads to misconceptions. By looking at the separate movements in feminism, beginning with womens suffrage in the 1920’s, moving through the 60’s liberation movement, up until now, viewers see the shift in focuses and issues as faced by the feminist movement. A common theme in the exhibit is the ratification of the equal rights amendment in Arizona, which is a battle that continues to this day. The exhibit also highlights the LGBTQ community of Arizona, particularly Tucson, in regards to their efforts towards gender equality as well as the additional obstacles they faced as oppressed individuals on the basis of their gender and sexuality. It is important to remember that feminism means equality for all women and all genders, to exclude any individual goes against the core values of the feminist movement.