Feminist Transformations and Domestic Violence Activism in Divided Berlin, 1968-2002

Feminists in West and East Berlin fought against domestic violence from the 1970s to 2002, exposing harmful gender norms and calling for change. Women's shelters have spread throughout Germany, and up to 45,000 women a year access emergency housing. Feminist Transformations explores how feminism changed women's rights in Germany, but also asks what popular and political support for domestic violence activism has meant for feminism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This groundbreaking historical study delves into the profound activism against domestic violence that took place in divided Berlin between 1968 and 2002. The feminist movement in West and East Berlin emerged in the 1970s as a powerful force, recognizing domestic violence as a fundamental issue of women's inequality. Activists in both regions exposed the harmful gender norms that left women vulnerable to abuse within their homes and demanded change. Their tireless efforts resulted in significant progress, as domestic violence has been one of the most successfully addressed issues by the women's movement in Germany. Since the establishment of the first shelter in West Berlin in 1976, women's shelters have proliferated across the country, providing emergency housing and support to thousands of women annually. Moreover, helplines and crisis centers have become crucial resources for those in need.

Feminist Transformations, a comprehensive work, traces the evolution of this movement across political division and reunification, from grassroots campaigns to established social services. By bringing the histories of feminism in East and West Berlin together, the book explores how feminism successfully transformed women's rights in Germany. However, it also raises important questions about the popular and political support for domestic violence activism, its implications for feminism, and the broader advancement of women's rights.

Jane Freeland's examination of the trajectory of feminism in Germany sheds light on the limitations of gender equality as advancements in women's rights were often built on the reassertion of patriarchal gender roles. The book highlights the complexities and challenges faced by feminists in their fight for equality, emphasizing the need for continued activism and advocacy to create a more inclusive and just society.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking historical study provides valuable insights into the activism against domestic violence in divided Berlin between 1968 and 2002. It sheds light on the tireless efforts of feminists in both regions to challenge gender norms, provide support to survivors, and advance women's rights. Through its comprehensive analysis, Feminist Transformations contributes to our understanding of the complexities and challenges of the feminist movement and its impact on society.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197267110