American Chronicles

NPR recalls the significant events in the women's movement with personal reminiscences and interviews ranging from some early pioneers to more contemporary activists who strive to maintain those hard-won rights. Among those featured are Shirley Chisholm, Geraldine Ferraro, Betty Friedan, and Gloria Steinem. The personal accounts and interviews are a moving reminder of how restrictive women's standing was, and why we should appreciate the efforts of those who fought for change. One of the most intriguing interviews is with Norma McCorvey, whose request for a legal abortion led to the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision. The impact of the pill, Title IX (a 1972 law requiring gender equity in every federally fund educational program), the ERA, and the National Organization of Women are some of the significant events of the 1960s and 1970s. This selection of highlights and history are surprising for demonstrating the lack of equality women had for so long and inspiring for revealing the lengths to which certain individuals went to change that status for all women.