Kindling the Torches of a New Generation of Activists

 

“To whom will you pass the torch that you have carried for years?” When this question was posed in the past, Gloria Steinem’s answer was, “We all have our own torches to carry through life. All I can do is help spark your torch so you can light the way for others.” On Thursday, May 22nd, the RCS ninth grade class, along with faculty chaperones Kate Daly and Mike Kober, had the opportunity to meet Ms. Steinem at her apartment in New York City. Arrangements for this meeting were made through RCS parent Greg Fleming.

Ms. Steinem graciously opened her home to the class and discussed her experiences; more importantly, she carefully listened to the thoughtful questions our students had about justice and freedom of expression in society. Ms. Steinem’s livingroom was alive with insightful dialogue between her and the students, and she pointed out that the ninth graders were now part of the history of the room where she and others had created Ms. Magazine, as well as the Women’s Action Alliance and the National Women’s Political Caucus.

Some of the discussion centered on women who inspired Ms. Steinem, many of whom are not recognized for their achievements. Among those women are Radia Perlman, whose work made the Internet possible, and Inez Jessie Baskin, who inspired a young Baptist minister by the name of Martin Luther King, Jr. to support the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955. These women contributed to American history, but they are never mentioned in our history books.

Many poignant questions were raised, including those that dealt with rules and regulations in society. Ms. Steinem’s responses were focused on respect and equality. Rules that are directed against a specific group, and not equally applied to all members of a society, are oppressive for the targeted group and are therefore unjust. Ms. Steinem’s responses to the questions about the future of people who are marginalized by society were hopeful. She pointed out the progress that has been made with respect to the Marriage Equality Act in New York and other states.

Ms. Steinem spoke about how a single gender college was very beneficial to her. At the time she was in college (in the 1950s), women in coeducational institutions were pushed to the side but, at Smith College, she felt important and had equal opportunities.

There were quite a few lessons that the ninth graders learned, including: be true to yourself and strive for equality and respect in the world. Although the struggle may be difficult, and protests seem unproductive, it is worth the effort if it brings about meaningful change for all people; understand the importance of empathizing with people who struggle and face obstacles every day.

Ms. Steinem sparked something within all of the students, and she taught them a great deal about justice and equality in a short amount of time. Truly, Gloria Steinem has kindled the torches of a new generation to take action for social equality and respect.