Phyllis Schlafly: An Example Of Maternalism

“Maternalism” refers to the strategy utilized to justify the involvement of women in politics during the progressive era. It invoked the belief that, as mothers, they had a moral obligation. These women did not see themselves as activists. They viewed themselves as respectable women performing women’s work. In fact, a vital component of the movement was that yes, a woman belonged in the home. However, they argued that the home was not only a physical building but also included the surrounding community. Thus, if they did not intervene, societal issues would enter the physical home (Clark Lecture, 2/2/2016). Although maternalism empowered women to enter the political world, it continued to relegate them to traditional gender roles.

Schlafly, a Republican Party activist and 1952 congressional candidate, contended that the “Positive Woman” would know her place and be comfortable within society. This woman would know her strengths and would use them to support and encourage her loved ones. (Schlafly, WA,714-718). Other conservatives defended the idea of maternalism by arguing that these women lived in a way that benefited their families, communities, and even themselves (Friedan, WA, 691). For example, Margaret Hickey, a former president of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, maintained that politics were as important to the family as “the evening meal or spring house cleaning” (Meyerowitz, Beyond the Feminine Mystique, 1467). Supporters argued that this movement did not isolate women to the home, but encouraged them to “move beyond it” (Meyerowitz, Beyond the Feminine Mystique, 1468). These ideals allowed women, who had once been relegated to their homes, to become involved in

For example, the WSP movement focused heavily on a woman’s role as a mother, and the idea that it was her duty to protect her family. The leaders of this movement believed in traditional gender roles, which isolated younger women. These women wanted to work for peace as a human being- not only as a mother (Swerdlow, WA, 629). Perhaps these women would have become involved in the movement had they not felt separated. Additionally, maternalism would not allow a woman to step outside of this traditional role. She would have nothing of her own; all her goals, hopes and dreams would be focused on caring for her family. And, according to Betty Friedan, this left the average woman feeling empty (Friedan, WA,