The rise of the second-wave feminist movement
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the second-wave feminist movement, commonly known as women’s liberation, began to gain significant traction. This period marked a crucial turning point in advocating for women’s rights. Yet, the movement encountered considerable obstacles, particularly a widespread misunderstanding of its objectives and goals.
One of the most contentious issues during this time was the perception of lesbians within the feminist movement. This created notable divisions among its leaders and activists. The struggle for inclusion highlighted broader societal challenges surrounding gender and sexuality, complicating the movement’s efforts for unity and progress.
Betty Friedan and the lavender menace
Among the key figures in the feminist movement was Betty Friedan, known for her influential book The Feminine Mystique, released in 1963. This publication shed light on the dissatisfaction many women experienced with traditional gender roles, igniting a surge of feminist activism. However, Friedan’s approach faced criticism for primarily addressing the experiences of affluent, heterosexual white women, often neglecting the challenges faced by women from varied backgrounds.
In 1966, Friedan co-founded the National Organization for Women (NOW), which quickly became a prominent advocate for feminist issues in the United States. Yet, during a NOW meeting in 1969, Friedan raised concerns about what she called the “lavender menace”, referring to the involvement of lesbians in the feminist movement. She feared that mainstream media had already portrayed feminists as “bra-burning lesbians,” and was worried this stereotype would overshadow the movement’s goals. Victoria A. Brownworth, writing for The Advocate, observed that Friedan aimed to attract more “feminine feminists” to support her vision.
Lesbian activism emerges
Despite facing resistance from some feminist leaders, lesbians within the movement remained resolute in asserting their rights. A pivotal moment occurred in 1970 during the National Organization for Women’s (NOW) Second Congress to Unite Women in New York City. A group of activists, known as the Radicalesbians, made a bold statement by interrupting the conference. They turned off the lights and then switched them back on, revealing themselves in T-shirts emblazoned with the phrase “Lavender Menace.”
One prominent activist, Karla Jay, recalled her experience, saying, “I stood up and I said, ‘Sisters, I’m so tired of being in the closet in the women’s movement.’” In a powerful gesture, she tore off her blouse to unveil her message, symbolizing the frustration and desire for acceptance among lesbian feminists. The demonstrators carried signs with impactful slogans such as “We are all lesbians” and “Lesbianism is a women’s liberation plot.”
Impact of the Lavender Menace
The demonstration lasted over two hours, igniting discussions among attendees regarding the inclusion of lesbian issues within the feminist movement. Women, both straight and lesbian, voiced their feelings of exclusion and the need for broader representation. The action resonated deeply, leading to a pivotal resolution the following year that officially recognized the oppression of lesbians as a legitimate concern of feminism.
Progress towards inclusion
The momentum continued to build during the National Women’s Conference held in Houston in 1977. This landmark event, funded by Congress, aimed to explore critical women’s issues. The gathering facilitated discussions on lesbian rights alongside other key topics, including the Equal Rights Amendment and reproductive rights. One of the most contentious proposals was a plank advocating for equal protection under the law, irrespective of “sexual preference,” a term that has since fallen out of favor but was widely accepted at the time.
Delegates adopted this plank in direct response to anti-gay campaigns led by figures such as Anita Bryant, which had resulted in the repeal of a gay rights ordinance in Miami. This newfound solidarity among feminists prompted many straight women to recognize the importance of supporting their lesbian counterparts. The atmosphere at the conference was electric, with delegates erupting in cheers as the plank passed, marking a significant victory for inclusion.
Betty Friedan’s apology
In a noteworthy moment of reconciliation, Betty Friedan later apologized for her previous use of the term “lavender menace,” acknowledging the harmful implications it carried. This pivotal apology marked a new chapter in the feminist movement, embracing a more inclusive narrative. While tensions have persisted over the years, the efforts of lesbian activists in the early 1970s fundamentally transformed the landscape of feminism, ensuring that the struggles and rights of all women were recognized and advocated for.
Reflecting on this historic journey, it is evident that the inclusion of lesbian voices was not merely a side note but essential to the evolution of feminism. The path forged by these activists serves as a reminder that the fight for equality is far-reaching and continuously evolving. It urges all advocates to persist in the work toward inclusivity and justice.