Feminism

Discussion questions

Pre-screening

• Have the students define feminism’s basic idea and/or goals.

Note: Questions are arranged based on when they occur in the video

Post-screening questions

1. Devaki Jain reads a quote by Jane Adams. What do you think Adams meant in this quote?
2. Johnnetta Cole mentions Fannie Lou Hamer and uses her quote, ”I am just so sick and tired of being sick and tired.” Why does Cole think Hamer is important?
3. Gloria Steinem discusses using male pronouns. How did this affect her mother?
4. Who does Mirna Cunningham think makes history? Do you think this is true today?
5. The women suggest that women would run the world differently than men. Discuss the accuracy of this position.

General Questions

1. List three key points the women make during their dinner.
2. List three things that you enjoyed about this clip.
3. How do the two groups (supporters and protestors) feel about each other?
4. How different are the two groups’ opinions of Nixon?
5. Do you agree with or feel empathy for any of the people interviewed or taped?

Homework Activities

1. Interview your mother or grandmother about her life and how her gender affects how see views the world
2. Pick another woman from history who pre-dates this generation. How do you think she would respond to this conversation?
3. What women do you think would be at the table today?
4. Simulation:
   • Have students research the women in the video: Magdalena Abakanowicz, Cheryl Carolus, Hyun-Kyung Chung, Johnnetta Cole, Mirna Cunningham, Nawal El Saadawi, Susan Faludi, Susan Grode, Anita Hill, Dolores Huerta, Devaki Jain, Wilma Mankiller, Gloria Steinem, & Addie Wyatt.
   • Have the students role play a debate or discussion as one of the women at the dinner table. What issues do they feel are most pressing coming from their different backgrounds?