THE WOMEN'S REVOLUTION

An insider’s account of the women’s movement.

Now 96, Fox, who co-founded the National Organization for Women in 1966, chronicles her experiences with second-wave feminism. In her first book, the author focuses on the contributions of more than two dozen figures, ranging from the iconic Betty Friedan (“the driving force behind our revolution”) to lesser-known activists such as Bella Abzug, Mary Eastwood, Ann Scott, and Holly Knox. Fox provides extraordinary insights into the growth of NOW and the work that went into its tremendous achievements across decades. “We transformed hiring practices,” she writes. “And language. And the image of what it means to be a woman. And jokes in the media. And women’s health care. If an injustice made your grandmother furious, we probably fought to change it.” The author thoroughly and frankly examines the intensity and significance of power struggles within NOW and the friendships and rivalries that formed among its members. She documents clearly the debates that divided members—such as whether to include advocacy for welfare, abortion, and the rights of lesbians—helping to clarify the trajectory of NOW’s ideological evolution. Also compelling are Fox’s reminders about the social and economic barriers first targeted by the organization. For example, she vividly describes the difficulties faced by women in the 1960s who sought access to credit or an apartment lease or wanted to visit a restaurant or bar “unescorted” by a man. The author also memorably captures the outrageousness of many workplace conditions, from visible and invisible barriers to promotion, to toxic cultures enabling sexual predation. Fox took on many leadership roles during her decades as a feminist trailblazer, and the insights she shares represent a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex history of a significant American movement.

Revealing, inspiring commentary on the struggles and successes of civil rights pioneers.