The Rise of U.S. Feminism and Wokism: Beyond the 2016 Election
The Rise of U.S. Feminism and Wokism: Beyond the 2016 Election
The rise of feminism in the United States has been a long and complex journey, spanning multiple decades and intersecting with various social and political movements. While the term 'feminism' was first coined in the 19th century, it has evolved significantly, particularly in the context of the 2016 election and the subsequent rise of 'wokism.' This article explores the history and significance of these movements, delving into their roots and the impact they have had on modern society.
Understanding Feminism and Wokism
Feminism and wokism are often conflated and misunderstood. While both movements advocate for social justice and equality, their scope and methods differ significantly. Feminism, broadly defined, seeks to address and eliminate gender-based discrimination and inequalities. Wokism, on the other hand, is a more specific cultural and social phenomenon centered around the intersectionality of various social justice issues, including race, gender, and class.
The Roots of Feminism
Feminism as a movement in the United States began in earnest during the 1840s, specifically with the Seneca Falls Convention held in 1848. At this pivotal meeting, a group of social and religious advocates, including women’s rights pioneer Elizabeth Cady Stanton and former slave and abolition advocate Frederick Douglass, gathered to advocate for women's rights and equal treatment. However, the term 'feminism' itself was not widely used until much later.
Feminism gained significant momentum throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during the women's suffrage movement of the early 20th century. The ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote, was a major milestone. Since then, the feminist movement has continued to evolve, addressing issues such as reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, and gender identity.
The 2016 Election and the Emergence of Wokism
Following Hillary Clinton’s defeat in the 2016 presidential election against Donald Trump, a significant shift in social and political discourse was observed. The aftermath of this election saw a massive media blitz on wokism, a term used to describe the intersectional approach to activism and social justice that critiques systemic racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression.
Late capitalism faced a significant backlash, leading to a reevaluation of narratives and the advancement of new symbols of feminism. In this context, black women emerged as the forefront of intersectional feminism. The widespread media coverage of incidents such as the #MeToo movement and the Black Lives Matter movement underscored the intersectionality of social justice issues, further solidifying the prominence of wokism.
The Intersectionality of Social Justice
The term 'woke' has deep historical roots, beginning with the Civil War era when northerners fighting against slavery were described as 'wide awakes.' In the mid-20th century, returning African-American GIs who witnessed the treatment of black Americans versus the treatment in Europe during World War I used the term 'woke' to describe their newfound awareness. In the context of modern social justice movements, 'woke' is used to describe those who are aware of and actively strive to address systemic injustices.
The intersectionality of social justice movements is crucial in understanding the rise of wokism. Issues of race, gender, and class are intertwined, and addressing one requires understanding and addressing the others. The success of the #MeToo movement and the Black Lives Matter movement, for example, relies on the intersectional approach that recognizes the overlap and interconnectedness of these issues.
Conclusion: Whining and Complaining From the Trump Cult
The rise of feminism and wokism is not solely a reaction to political events but rather a culmination of long-standing social and political movements. While the whining and complaining from the Trump cult increased in the 2016 aftermath, it is important to recognize that these movements have roots extending far beyond the election.
Right-wingers are known for amplifying narratives that align with their worldview, often disseminated by media outlets like Fox News and Newsmax. However, the power and influence of intersectional social justice movements have become undeniable, as they continue to shape public discourse and policy.
As we move forward, it is essential to understand the historical context and the multifaceted nature of these movements. By grappling with the complexities of gender, race, and class, we can work towards a more equitable and just society.