I was brought up to be uncompromisingly bloody-minded by my mother. She equipped me, without knowing it, to be someone who is creative rather than an entertainer. Not many girls are brought up like that, to never rely on a man. To not be a housewife, not be a mother.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of independence and creativity in women, shaped by a mother's influence.
Viv Albertine reflects on her upbringing, highlighting how her mother's teachings instilled in her a strong sense of independence and creativity. She points out that not many girls are encouraged to embrace their individuality and to pursue paths that defy traditional gender roles, such as prioritizing personal creativity over conventional expectations like being a housewife or mother.
In practice
During a women's empowerment event to inspire young girls about their future.
In the 1970s, girls didn't do anything. It wasn't their fault. For me and the other working-class girls I hung around with, our route was plotted - you were a secretary and a wife. I wanted to hitchhike around the world, go on motorbikes, be in bands.
One mushroom cloud would change history. My deepest fear is that this is exactly what they [Al Qaeda] intend.
How could I look my grandchildren in the eye and say I knew what was happening to the world and did nothing.
When we confront facts and fears, we achieve real power and unleash our capacity for change.
You are the world. When you transform yourself, the world you live in will also be transformed.
Feminism is not here to dictate to you. It’s not prescriptive, it’s not dogmatic. All we are here to do is give you a choice. If you want to run for President, you can. If you don’t, that’s wonderful, too. I’m lucky I was raised to believe that my opinion at the dinner table was valuable. My mum and I spoke as loudly as my brothers.
Those who are bent on revolutionizing society may be divided into those who seek something for themselves thereby and those who seek something for their children and grandchildren.
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