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Let every woman ask herself: "Why am I the slave of man?…

“Let every woman ask herself: "Why am I the slave of man? Why is my brain said not to be the equal of his brain? Why is my work notpaid equally with his? Why must my body be controlled by my husband? Why may he take my labor in the household, giving me in exchange what he deems fit? Why may he take…” quote by Voltairine de Cleyre
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“Let every woman ask herself: "Why am I the slave of man? Why is my brain said not to be the equal of his brain? Why is my work notpaid equally with his? Why must my body be controlled by my husband? Why may he take my labor in the household, giving me in exchange what he deems fit? Why may he take my children from me? Will them away while yet unborn?" Let every woman ask.”

Voltairine de Cleyre

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

She urges women to question systemic oppression, highlighting inequities in intellect, labor, bodily autonomy, and parental rights.

In simple terms: She calls for women to examine gender inequality.

Key Takeaway

Challenge and dismantle patriarchal structures.

Themes

feminism equality rights autonomy

Mood

determined hopeful

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • activism
  • education
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

social theory political philosophy intersectionality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can modern societies address these inequities?
  • What steps can individuals take toward gender equality?
A Different Perspective

May reflect historical context, not all issues persist unchanged.

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