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.
April 26, 1977 - Anita Nelam, vice chairwoman of the National Women's Political Caucus, speech about the need for women to continue the pressure of getting more women into positions of authority in the Carter administration, followed by two excerpts from a rain-shortened gathering of NOW at supporters at annual conference in Detroit, with commentary on ERA’s need to strengthen its support.
May 14, 1977 - Scientist and feminist Estelle Ramey speaking in Minneapolis, as part of a series of appearances by women sponsored by Dayton's. Ramey’s topic was “Sex Hormones and Executive Abilities”, which discussed men versus women in positions of control.
June 4, 1977 - MPR’s Claudia Hampston reports on announcement at Minnesota Women's Meeting of Governor Perpich’s court appointments, including Rosalie Wahl as associate justice on Minnesota Supreme Court.
June 18, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, a presentation of Twin Cities author Judith Guest speaking at Women as Writers symposium.
June 26, 1977 - MPR’s John Morrill reports on National Organization of Women (NOW) regional meeting and interviews members on activities in support of ERA.
June 26, 1977 - MPR’s Kate Williams reports on comments from social and political activist Gloria Steinem at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Convention held in Minnesota.
June 26, 1977 - Social and political activist Gloria Steinem comments on pay equity.
July 8, 1977 - KRSW reporter Vickie Sturgeon profiles the recent Minnesota Women's Meeting in St. Cloud, with a special emphasis on portions of the conference that addressed problems of rural women.
July 9, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, St. Paul writer Christina Baldwin discusses her book “One to One: Self Understanding Through Journal Writing.”
July 9, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, historian Gretchen Kreuter speaks at University of Minnesota's Women's Day on Campus, sponsored by Continuing Education for Women.