Feminist March (Press, 15 December 1970)
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Summary: Feminist March (Press, 15 December 1970)
On 13 December 1970, a group of approximately 300 feminists and their allies marched through New York City, braving harsh weather conditions including freezing rain and strong winds, to advocate for reproductive rights and child-care services. The march concluded outside the residence of New York Mayor John Lindsay, where the protesters sought to present their demands for free abortions and 24-hour community-controlled child-care centres. Their slogans highlighted a unifying message: "Out of the kitchen, out of the house, out from under — women unite," alongside more provocative chants like "Castration for rape." Although the protesters were informed that Mayor Lindsay would be absent and that two aides would meet with them, they declined to engage in discussions with Mr Barry Gottehrer, his senior executive assistant, and chose to leave without addressing their primary concerns. The march was marked by speeches from prominent women’s rights activists, including Mrs Kate Millett, author of "Sexual Politics," who denounced derogatory labels and emphasized the importance of women's sexual liberation as part of a broader fight against sexism. Betty Frieden, a leading figure in the Women’s Liberation Movement, also addressed the crowd, asserting that their cause was politically significant and would not fade away. She stressed the necessity for women to have autonomy over their own bodies and called for solidarity between advocates for women's rights and those concerned about fetal rights. In a passionate appeal, Frieden warned of potential political repercussions if the government ignored the voices and demands of women, pointing out that women constitute 53 per cent of the electorate. The diverse group of participants included representatives from various organisations, such as the Young Women’s Christian Association and the American Civil Liberties Union, as well as radical nuns and lesbians, all united in their call for necessary societal changes regarding women's issues.
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