Dr. Harriet Fraad

Women with access to birth control are increasingly opting out of bearing children worldwide. Women are now economically forced into labor outside of the home. Thanks to persistent male chauvinism women are then expected to perform a "second shift" of housework and childcare.

What are the Skills and Strengths Learned In Performing Women’s Traditional Labor of Caring
for Vulnerable Lives , and Creating Order and Cleanliness? Why Are These Knowledges
Unknown, No Less Uncelebrated? Ignoring these strengths and skills devalues women, devalues
caring, devalues life itself and perpetuates callousness towards others, a callousness that allows employers to exploit employees.

The United States has lost its position in the top 10 happiest nations? We have lost on every marker of life satisfaction. How do we regain our joy and hope?

Dr. Harriet Fraad shares insights on the Superdatic Club podcast today by discussing the evolution of the feminist movement and how it was influenced and partly diverted by external forces such as the CIA and FBI. She highlights the relationship between economic systems, gender, and family structures, noting the impact of class stratification on these aspects of society. Fraad also addresses the transformation and challenges of the nuclear family in contemporary times, pointing out the lack of supportive social structures for families in the United States. Moreover, she mentions how the decline of unions and rise of class consciousness are leading to a resurgence in union activity and a reevaluation of gender and race issues within a broader economic context. Lastly, Fraad's positive view on the increasing involvement of men in child-rearing suggests a hopeful shift towards greater gender equality in parenting.

Harriet Fraad joins Irish Granny Tarot to discuss her experiences and insights as one of the pioneers of the Second Wave Women's Movement. She clarifies the myth of bra burning during the Miss America protest, reaffirming the movement's focus on combating second-class citizenship for women rather than protesting beauty standards. Fraad shares personal stories of her family upbringing, highlighting the complex feminist views of her parents and the unique challenges she faced due to her mother's absence during early childhood. The conversation touches on famous figures in the feminist movement, noting Fraad's perspective on their contributions and controversies, such as Gloria Steinem's ties with the CIA. Looking to the future, Fraad advocates for a unified movement that includes class, gender, race, and LGBTQ rights, with hopes for strong, charismatic leaders who can champion these causes.