Black Quote by Gail Collins
“When the women's movement began, it was a middle-class phenomenon. Certainly, black women had other stuff to think about in the '60s besides a women's movement. Working-class women were slow to get into it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The New York Times Book Review, 1990s article on feminism
The early feminist movement was primarily driven by middle‑class women, while Black and working‑class women faced other priorities and joined later.
In simple terms: Middle‑class women led early feminism; other groups joined later.
Recognize diverse experiences in activism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- activism
- policy advocacy
- community organizing
- education campaigns
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How did class shape feminist priorities?
- What barriers did Black women face?
Overlooks individual agency within groups.