Revolutionary Feminists: The Women's Liberation Movement in Seattle

Revolutionary Feminists explores the 1960s and 1970s Seattle women's liberation movement from the perspective of Barbara Winslow, highlighting the significant role of Black women in forming intersectional coalitions. Winslow showcases the movement's successes and achievements, such as organizing women at work and advocating for abortion law liberalization. However, she also critiques the movement's failure to listen to Black, Latina, Indigenous, and Asian American and Pacific Islander feminist activists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 08 August 2023
Publisher: Duke University Press

Revolutionary Feminists delves into the captivating tale of the radical women's liberation movement in Seattle during the 1960s and 1970s, offering a unique perspective through the eyes of a founding member, Barbara Winslow. Through a rich tapestry of letters, pamphlets, photographs, newspaper accounts, autobiographies, and interviews, Winslow highlights the indispensable role played by Black women in forging powerful intersectional coalitions within a predominantly White city. She breathes life into the voices and visions of the "ecstatic utopians" who drove this movement, charting their remarkable short-term successes and enduring achievements. From organizing women at work and advocating for subsidized childcare to establishing women-centered rape crisis centers, health clinics, and self-defense programs, the Seattle movement played a pivotal role in securing the first popular vote in the United States to liberalize abortion laws.

However, Winslow's critique extends to the failure of the movement's White members to genuinely listen to the voices of Black, Latina, Indigenous, and Asian American and Pacific Islander feminist activists. Reflecting on the Seattle movement's accomplishments and shortcomings, Winslow presents a valuable model for contemporary feminist activism, urging activists to embrace diversity, inclusivity, and intersectionality in their pursuit of social justice.

This captivating book serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the women's liberation movement and its profound impact on shaping the world we live in today.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478019916