Date of Creation
Fall 2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Department
History
First Advisor
Stephanie Yuhl
Second Advisor
Edward O'Donnell
Abstract
In 1977, the National Women’s Conference in Houston, Texas was an ambitious and historic attempt to set an agenda for women's rights and equality in the United States. This groundbreaking event brought together thousands of activists, policymakers, and leaders to discuss and propose solutions to issues facing women. This paper uses a qualitative and media analysis of five major newspapers: The New York Times, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, and The Boston Globe to examine how mainstream media constructed narratives of unity and division surrounding the conference. The findings suggest that media coverage was shaped by both patriarchal traditions and the strategic messaging of conference spokeswomen.
Recommended Citation
Hunter, Claire T., "When the Media Meets the Movement: Constructing Unity and Division at the National Women’s Conference" (2024). Washington Semester Program. 151.
https://crossworks.holycross.edu/washington/151