Karen DeCrow

Karen DeCrow was an American attorney, feminist, and author, best known for her work in advancing women’s rights. Born on July 5, 1943, in Washington, D.C., DeCrow became a prominent figure in the feminist movement during the 1970s. She served as the president of the National Organization for Women (NOW) from 1974 to 1977, where she worked tirelessly to promote gender equality, advocate for reproductive rights, and challenge discriminatory practices. Her leadership in the feminist community made her a powerful voice in shaping the conversation around women’s rights.

DeCrow was also an accomplished writer, authoring books such as "The Feminist Companion to Women’s Studies" and "Sexist Justice: How the Courts Fail Women". In her work, she often critiqued the legal and societal structures that perpetuated inequality, advocating for systemic changes to improve the status of women. Her career also extended to law, where she became a strong advocate for women's rights in the legal field, bringing attention to issues such as domestic violence, workplace discrimination, and sexual harassment.

One of DeCrow’s impactful quotes is: “Feminism is not about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” This quote encapsulates her belief in the inherent power of women and her ongoing fight to change societal perceptions. Throughout her life, Karen DeCrow remained a passionate and committed advocate for gender equality, leaving a lasting legacy in the feminist movement.