A Woman's Path to Liberation

January 21, 1961

I read all day while James is at work. I have learned so much! For months, I have poured over Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Cady Stanton, Lucy Stone, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Margaret Fuller, Alice Paul. How have I never heard their names before? Is it some dark secret that women have been involved in making history in America? I never learned about these incredible women in school. I recently read, "Women aren't an 'Other'" by Simone de Beauvoir. It has changed me as a person. Women are as capable of choice as men are. We are capable of elevating ourselves and choosing our own freedom! Women shouldn't be defined in relation to men. I am not an "imperfect" man!

If we all got together, I know we could make a change. Someone would have to listen to us!

February 15, 1961

I've started to hold private meetings in my own home, inviting only Janine and Laney. Janine and I have grown closer and closer as I become more educated about the fight for women's rights. She is a powerful woman and truly has the jets to go places. Our conversations have become more deliberate as I have specific questions and comments about our role in furthering women now. My passion is rising and she has noticed a change in me.

Laney's husband has forced her into an increasingly submissive role. She is lucky if she can leave the house at all. He doesn't like that she associates with the group, but for now he feels like I am "not a threat" to Laney and allows her to come to my house. If only he knew what "blasphemies" we were speaking under this roof. I invite her to try to close the gap that has started to grow in our friendship. She is talking more and more like her husband and identifying herself less and less with us. It is disheartening to see her slip away.

May 30, 1961

I saw an interesting article in the newspaper yesterday that got me thinking. The Mansfield News Journal reported a gradual decrease in readers over the last seven or so years. They have lost their chief editor to a newspaper in Cleveland and their writers have begun to pick up work elsewhere. I can't believe I am even thinking like this, but I can't stop myself. The Journal is looking for local investors or it will have to close down. It's been operating since 1908 and people in this town have strong ties to it. What if we... No, I won't spoil it. I will approach the women's group at our meeting tomorrow and obtain the blessing of the sisterhood. I am so excited!