9 Comments

I was teaching my high schoolers about Mary Wollstonecraft yesterday and also got a lackluster response about feminism. I’m fuming along with you.

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I know that this generation feels weary beyond its years with the burden to "save the world" that has been placed on their young shoulders. I really do get it. But when they overturned Roe, when we read about the state of maternal and fetal health in this wealthy country, particularly for women of color, etc., etc., ad nauseam, how does your hair not catch on fire? How are you not incandescent with rage? I'm trying to understand, but it's hard. Good for you for being in the classroom. My parents were both teachers, and things are even harder now. Your students are lucky to have you.

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Wow, this praise has truly touched my heart. Thank you so very much! Your words were needed today, as the brain-space weighs heavy. Thank you for your kindness, for your support, and for being a fellow conspirator in defying the patriarchy with our laughter, joy, creativity, and wit! Sending so much love your way.

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Thank you so much for reading! It’s so nice to meet another unapologetic feminist here. So happy to have found your work!

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This is really powerful, Tara. 🙏

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Thanks, Adam. I really appreciate that. It's one of my favorites that I've posted so far.

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Thanks for this! Why oh why does that tired story still exist? It’s time to drive a stake through its misogynistic heart. Thanks for the poem, and the links and recommendations!

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My daughter graduated from high school last spring and throughout her high school career I was so blown away by the books and short stories they are STILL READING in the average classroom. Why oh why when there has been so much great literature written since? Books that reflect the whole range of experiences. It baffles me.

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I was a closet feminist as a teenager. I remember how in awe I was of Mary Wollstonecraft, and how I had to read Sisterhood is Powerful and The Second Sex in complete secrecy. My (male) English teacher assigned a single poem by Emily Dickinson “for the women’s libbers in the class,” looking straight at me. So sad that the patriarchy is still entrenched in our educational system. But that’s reflective of our culture. What a battle. Jenna, I applaud you for teaching the truth. And it may not seem like it now, but I can guarantee you that you’re making a difference. Kudos to you.

Tara, I remember sitting in a Barnes & Noble cafe with a writer friend. I got a notification on my phone of the Court’s decision. We looked at each other as we both realized that this was going to be the fight of our lives, for our daughters and their daughters. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so angry.

History matters. Literature matters. Poets against Patriarchy!

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