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“To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” - Nelson Mandela
A Tribute to Aretha Franklin
By Amber Peacock
Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul” and one of the most iconic females in America. Franklin, born March 25, 1942 passed away August 16, 2018. Franklin was a singer, songwriter and a pianist. Aretha made such an impact in the feminist community. She was the first woman to induct into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Franklin also performed at three different Presidential Inaugurations which included, Jimmy Carter’s in 1977, Bill Clinton’s in 1993 and finally Barack Obama’s in 2009. Aretha also performed “Amazing Grace” for Pope Francis in 2015. Aretha Franklin is very known for all her amazing performances and songs including, I Say a Little Prayer, You Make Me Feel (like a natural woman).
However, the performance that truly made an impact in the feminist community, was in 1967 when she sang “Respect”. “Respect”, was originally a song written by a man and recorded by Otis Redding in 1965. That alone made the song so much more powerful to the women listening to it. It became the anthem for feminism and civil rights in the late 60’s. She is also known for her support of Civil Rights activist, Angela Davis during a time in history when it wasn't popular. Aretha Franklin will never be forgotten.
The broadcastHER section aims to provide a feministic point of view on social and political issues. To be a feminist is not to think women are better, but rather an attempt to transcend from stereotypical gender roles. Intersectional Feminism accepts and fights for other social issues such as people of color and the LGBTQIA community. We must "lift as we climb", as explained by Angela Davis
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Clara Belle Drisdale Williams
Do you know Clara Belle Drisdale Williams? She was the first African-American graduate of New Mexico State University. Many professors at the time did not allow her in their classrooms. Clara took notes from the hallway.
Upon receiving her degree she was not allowed to walk with the rest of the graduating class at the Commencement Ceremony. She taught black students during the day and assisted their parents, many of whom were former slaves, in the evenings.
In 1961 NMSU named a street on their campus after Williams and in 2005 the English Department renamed their building in her honor. She was also awarded an honorary degree in 1980 and the university apologized for the treatment she received while she was a student.
In 1917 she married Jasper Williams. Her three children went on to become physicians, one a Tuskegee airmen.
Let us never forget Clara and her achievements in the face of adversity. Email us below if you have someone you would like featured in our Do You Know? section.