Blackwell Reference Online

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Liberal feminism is one of the earliest forms of feminism, stating that women's secondary status in society is based on unequal opportunities and segregation from men. Emerging out of the abolitionist and women's movement in the US, this body of feminism focuses on eliminating gender inequality. The basic beliefs are grounded in liberalist philosophical traditions, as well as French and British feminist theory. Society consists of individuals who are equals and therefore all people must have equal rights. There is a clear division between the role of the state (public) and individual freedom (private). Liberal feminists create change by working within existing social structures and changing people's attitudes. The anti-slavery movement emerged in the early 1800s. These groups engaged in public forums and speeches, boycotted churches and businesses that supported slavery, lobbied for changes in laws, and practiced other forms of non-violent activism. These tactics reemerged during the modern black Civil Rights Movement starting in the mid-to-late 1950s. Many of the early founders of the suffrage movement or first wave of feminism were strong abolitionists and began organizing for women's rights while members of these anti-slavery organizations. Many activists such as Angelina and Sarah Grimke spoke publicly about the need for equal education and an end to women's servitude. The first ... log in or subscribe to read full text