Feminism encompasses a range of social movements, political ideologies, and perspectives that focus on defining, establishing, and achieving personal, economic, social, and political and personal women’s rights. Ideally, feminists are fighting for a society that provides equal opportunities for women in employment and education. The feminist movements in contemporary societies continue to champion for women’s rights, including the right to hold public office, vote, own property, work, receive education, and enjoy equal rights within marriage. Particularly, they support or advocate for women’s rights and equality.
The second-wave feminism is women’s movement that occurred in the 1960s and 1970s. During the period, women were reinventing themselves, and feminist movements were springing up (Miller 7). The impacts of the movements have been felt in schools, homes, business, sports, entertainment, and in various aspects of people’s public and private lives. Initially, the second wave feminist movement fought against workplace inequality and gender discrimination through legislatures and courts. Betty Friedan is an example of a second-wave feminist who dedicated their efforts to opening up the system for women’s participation in political and public spaces (Miller 48). The second-wave feminists lobbied Congress to change laws, publicize issues such as domestic violence and rape through the media, reach out to ordinary women with an aim of expanding the movement, and raising awareness about the way feminist movements could help women. The perpetual thinking, writing, speaking, litigating, and fundraising helped in propelling the movement forward (Miller 8).
The efforts of the second-wave feminists yielded new legislations that aided their courses. Their initiatives played a crucial role in promoting the welfare of women in various aspects. For example, the 1963 Equal Pay Act prohibited gender-based wage discriminations. Their efforts also led to changes in social and cultural norms as well as attitudes about women. Some of the feminist organizations created during the second-wave feminist movement are still operational in contemporary social settings.
“Makers: Women Who Make America” is an inspirational documentary that depicts the women’s fight for economic opportunity, political power, and personal autonomy. It profiles CEOs, Secretaries of State, and Supreme Court Judges. The documentary also profiles activists, entertainers, and athletes. The women whose stories are assembled in the documentary are ground-breakers who inspired change and paved the way for other women to follow. Furthermore, “Makers” profiles exceptional women, ranging from unknown people to famous individuals who pioneered activities that have shaped various aspects of the modern society.
The women profiled in “Makers” have played an instrumental role in driving social change. It also chronicles unforgettable moments in modern history that are associated with modern feminism. The project leverages the combined use of the internet and builds multi-platform video experiences to the audience. The project focuses on sharing stories about outstanding women whose pioneering work have significantly influenced the present society. The Women’s Movements have impacted various aspects of the American society. “The Makers” is a dramatic and moving film that appeals to both men and women, and the entire family can view it.
The stories of women who pioneered and broke barriers in various fields continue to inspire viewers to be positive change makers in the society. The impact of the women profiled in the Makers is just starting to be understood and felt in the society. The pioneers have been inspirational to women. More women are joining male-dominated careers such TV anchors, producers, radio announcers, editors and videographers. Furthermore, they are becoming engineers, ICT managers, communication experts, and development professionals. Some are now CEOs and board directors.
Work Cited
Miller, Susan. In Our Time: A Memoir of a Revolution. New York: The Dial Press 1999. Print.
