Audre Lorde Research Paper

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Black Feminists: bell hooks and Audre Lorde
The leaders bell hooks and Audre Lorde from the feminist movement have inspired social change. Their work has change the course of my life and the lives of many others. bell hooks September 25, 1952, a woman was born that would change many people’s lives and open many eyes to the oppression surrounding them and within them. She not only illuminates the issues suffocating society, but empowers the oppressed. “Feminism is a movement to end sexism, sexist exploitation, and oppression.” (hooks 2000, viii). This definition of feminism, created by bell hooks, is profound, insightful, and used universally to teach what it means to be a feminist. That woman was Gloria Jean Watson, better known as bell
She sparked ideas on contemporary black feminist thought and “womanism” which have become universal and central to feminist texts. Lorde was writing as a black, lesbian woman in the 1950’s. She faced discrimination at every level; furthermore, this was at a time when men were just beginning to consider women intellectuals. Since childhood, Lorde began to write poetry to express herself because she found it hard to communicate her thoughts in normal conversation; this childhood struggle eventually turned into a series of feminist masterpieces. Lorde does not write to impress; every word she writes has a purpose and a meaning. Lorde’s work on women’s sexuality, patriarchy, and power are what I find to be the greatest forces of
After reading their work, I felt like I had seen behind the curtain, and my understanding of oppression deepened. From studying these women and their influence, I am encouraged to take more initiative as a woman for other women. Additionally, I am called to act on behalf of all intersecting identities in a logical manner with reformation always in mind. Every day, I am face with a choice: work to improve the lives of others or turn my cheek to reality. Audre Lorde and bell hooks woke up each morning and decided they would not be quiet. Because they were strong, they spoke for the weak, ignorant, and afraid. I am called by their messages to speak up when I see injustice and to take the privileges I have been given and use them for those who are not given a voice to

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