The 1970s was an impactful decade for women’s striving for equality in the United States. Beyond the news headlines of ERA, NOW, and Roe vs. Wade, more women entered the workforce, enrolled in colleges, and took the spotlight in business, politics, and professional sports. The topic of gender discrimination was in the forefront, and with it, strong and diverse viewpoints on the path forward. Minnesota was no exception, and this collection represents some of the views and ways of life for women in this tumultuous decade.
November 21, 1979 - MPR’s Nancy Fushan interviews writer Meridel Le Sueur and choreographer Margaret Fargnoli about dance interpretation of Le Sueur’s poetry.
December 12, 1979 - MPR’s Nancy Fushan interviews Grace Paley, writer and activist, who reads from her short stories and talks about her life, writing, and political involvement.
July 5, 1996 - MPR’s Paula Schroeder interviews local playwright Martha Boesing, who discusses her play “These Are My Sisters.” The one-person play explores the political and artistic roots of feminism in the 1970's.
April 1, 1998 - MPR’s Gretchen Lehmann profiles the historical impact of the “Willmar 8” and how it will be remembered by future generations. Lehmann interviews a member of the “Willmar 8” and two academics.
September 19, 2005 - MPR’s Catherine Winter and Stephanie Hemphill present an American RadioWorks documentary titled “No Place for a Woman.” The documentary explores the legal landmark and legacy for women’s rights in the northern Minnesota’s Iron Range.