We live, I am trying to say, in an epidemic of male violence against women.
Interpretation
The quote highlights the serious issue of violence that men perpetrate against women, calling for awareness and action.
Katha Pollitt's quote addresses the alarming prevalence of male violence against women, suggesting that this issue has reached epidemic proportions. It urges society to acknowledge this reality and take steps towards preventing such violence, emphasizing the urgent need for change in attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate gender-based violence.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech advocating for women's rights.
I think the meaning of abortion is what the woman says it is: For a woman who wants a child but can't have this one, it can be sad; for a woman who doesn't want a baby, it can feel like a huge relief, like having your whole life given back to you.
We need to say that women have sex, have abortions, are at peace with the decision, and move on with their lives. We need to say that is their right, and, moreover, it's good for everyone that they have this right: The whole society benefits when motherhood is voluntary.
Misogyny runs deeper than religion.
Acts of bravery don't always take place on battlefields. They can take place in your heart, when you have the courage to honor your character, your intellect, your inclinations, and yes, your soul by listening to its clean, clear voice of direction instead of following the muddied messages of a timid world.
Against the persecution of a tyrant the godly have no remedy but prayer.
The scariest moment is always just before you start.
If we don't fight hard enough for the things we stand for, at some point we have to recognize that we don't really stand for them.
Courage allows the successful woman to fail - and to learn powerful lessons from the failure - so that in the end, she didn't fail at all.
We've all lived through something horrific, but the strength and beauty and knowledge that we're going to win eventually is what keeps me going.
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