Feminism
The Infamous "F" Word
The word feminist was introduced in the U.S. in 1895 and has been used as a rallying cry for women and a term of derision against them ever since.What is Feminism?
"Feminism is the radical notion that women are human beings." - Cheris Kramerae"Feminism is the political theory and practice that struggles to free all women: women of color, working-class women, poor women, disabled women, lesbians, old women - as well as white, economically privileged, heterosexual women." - Barbara Smith
"I myself have never been able to find out precisely what feminism is: I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat." - Rebecca West
The National Organization for Women is the largest organization of feminists, both men and women, in the United States.
Established in 1966, we represent thousands of committed women in chapters throughout the state. California NOW (CA NOW) is the state branch of the National Organization for Women and works on issues that affect women and girls throughout California.