In the last century, the women’s movement broke barriers and created change that still resonates today. It’s essential to teach students of all ages about the history of women’s rights and empowerment. Learning about and celebrating women’s contributions is vital for creating gender equality, building respect, and creating opportunities for women.
Here’s how you can teach your students about the women’s movement:
1. Introduce feminist leaders.
Many remarkable women have fought for rights and equal treatment throughout history. Encourage students to discuss some of the historical figures who drove the women’s movement, like Susan B. Anthony, Shirley Chisholm, Gloria Steinem, and many more. You can choose a few individuals, or there are plenty of books, podcasts, and documentaries available about the women who shaped the movement.
2. Learn about women’s progress.
Students need to know how far women have come in the past hundred years. Discuss major milestones, such as women’s right to vote, Title IX, equal pay, reproductive rights, and economic empowerment. Perhaps even encourage students to interview a woman who has experienced the empowerment of the women’s movement firsthand.
3. Teach teamwork, unity, and allyship.
Discuss how various women worked together to create change and how non-binary people, men, and advocates offered their support for the feminist cause. Teamwork and allyship are vital when it comes to achieving shared goals. Teach your students about the many aspects that need to be considered to combat inequalities.
4. Analyze media.
The media can shape the way we feel about women as a society. Teach students how marketing and media can promote harmful stereotypes, like objectifying women or portraying women in unreliable roles. Discuss women’s representations in movies, TV shows, and politics to help teach how to look for negative stereotypes and counteract them.
5. Influence Change.
In concluding the lessons on the women’s movements or feminist theory, encourage your students to find ways to make a difference – whether it’s volunteering in a march, communicating with the local legislator, or supporting businesses owned by women. Students not only benefit from learning about the history of the women’s movement but also the ways in which to continue to strive for gender equity and equality.
In conclusion, teaching students about the women’s movements not only enrichs their knowledge of history and sociology but also helps them learn about the importance of respecting one another. By learning about empowering feminism, students can be more educated and compassionate about gender issues in their communities and beyond.
