Thanks for sharing this reflection. The quote from Ernestine Rose “If we are loyal to our highest convictions, we need not care how far it may lead. For truth, like water, will find its own level.” is extremely apt—I love it!
It can be challenging in advocacy to remain authentic as advocates are worn down by societal resistance or a temptation to compromise. But that authentic voice, the demand for transformative change, helps movements thrive and is necessary for genuine and lasting progress.
It is interesting how animal and climate advocates reference women’s suffrage as a successful campaign model. Yet no surprise as we fight against similarly established power structures we need to be persistent, intersectional, and support and build upon our grassroots to grow into a broader societal movements.
The timing of that article is quite serendipitous! I am always glad to see more groups looking to the suffrage movement for inspiration. I agree that our society can make authenticity challenging (despite society also craving authenticity!), especially when it feels like we have more examples of inauthenticity rather than authenticity to model after.
Thanks for sharing this reflection. The quote from Ernestine Rose “If we are loyal to our highest convictions, we need not care how far it may lead. For truth, like water, will find its own level.” is extremely apt—I love it!
It can be challenging in advocacy to remain authentic as advocates are worn down by societal resistance or a temptation to compromise. But that authentic voice, the demand for transformative change, helps movements thrive and is necessary for genuine and lasting progress.
It is interesting how animal and climate advocates reference women’s suffrage as a successful campaign model. Yet no surprise as we fight against similarly established power structures we need to be persistent, intersectional, and support and build upon our grassroots to grow into a broader societal movements.
It seemed fitting that I came across this article with the suffragrette references after reading your post: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jan/14/climate-activists-who-target-artworks-using-suffragette-tactics-says-artist-alex-margo-arden
I wish the IP28 well and sincerely hope it stimulates conversations and change.
The timing of that article is quite serendipitous! I am always glad to see more groups looking to the suffrage movement for inspiration. I agree that our society can make authenticity challenging (despite society also craving authenticity!), especially when it feels like we have more examples of inauthenticity rather than authenticity to model after.