Traditions are the guideposts driven deep in our subconscious minds. The most powerful ones are those we can't even describe, aren't even aware of.
Ellen GoodmanRead
The women's movement was always going to work in two parts. With one part, we'd break open the doors that were closed to women, and with the other part, we'd walk through, transforming society for men and women. Turns out it was a lot easier to open the doors.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The women's movement aims to both gain access for women and reshape societal norms for everyone.
Ellen Goodman's quote highlights the dual approach of the women's movement: first, to gain entry into spaces traditionally closed to women, and second, to create a broader societal transformation that benefits all genders. The quote suggests that while it may be easier to achieve the first goal of access, the real challenge lies in the deeper societal change that follows.
Themes
WomenMovementChangeSocietyTransformation
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about gender equality, you might use this quote to emphasize the ongoing work needed for social change.
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My father used to say that if a man fools you once, he's a jerk. If he fools you twice, you're a jerk. Only he didn't use the word "jerk."
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