Since the beginning of time society no matter if it was in north america, south America, or Europe women have always been seen as inferior towards men. Believing they provide nothing to society and are only there to support the males’ needs. Due to this Chicanas sought to accomplish from a movement that would to redefine women’s roles within their families as well as within the community while also respecting their cultural values from their Mexican heritage. Resulting in their desire to advocate for gender equity, cultural pride, and social justice through a redefinition of identity in their community.
Alma M. Garcia is an anthology that gathers writings of Chicana feminist scholars and other activists to her main point in a book titled “Chicana Feminist Thought: The Basic Historical Writings” to highlight the unique experiences and perspectives of Chicanas within both the feminist and Chicano movements. Some points that she mentions is that chicana feminism despite their addresses to bring everyone together within their community to be treated equally and have the same opportunities, there are multiple forms of oppression within their community. The Chicanos/Chicanas movement reinforces their culture to embrace it rather than to be embarrassed by it because what’s the point in getting equal opportunities if they’re too afraid to be themselves and represent where they’re from. Alma M. Garcia emphasizes the importance of Education believing its a Path to Liberation for Chicanas because García highlights how Chicana feminists demanded access to education and fought for the inclusion of Chicano studies.
In the book titled “Public Feminism” by Carrie N. Baker and Aviva Dove-Viebahn, Eds convey in the book about addressing the gap between academic feminist theories and community based activism to create a shared space for action. The term encompasses efforts to make feminist more accessible, and impactful beyond the walls of academia for those who are not fortunate to be a part of it. By connecting the research and theory to everyday issues and marginalized communities and the public, feminisms aim to transform how we understand justice, equity, and the inclusion of everyone in the community. Baker and Dove-Viebahn (2023) discussions aim to deconstruct and critique media portrayals of gender, race, and power dynamics, making academic insights accessible to diverse audiences. Collaborative performances, such as reimagining historical or cultural events through a feminist and Indigenous perspective, are explored.
References:
(1) Garcia, A. M. (Ed.). (2003). Chicana feminist thought: The basic historical writings. Routledge.
(2)Baker, C., & Dove-Viebahn, A. (2023). Public Feminisms: From Academy to Community.
