In the wake of Title IX and Roe v Wade, some may consider the 1980s a “quiet” decade, but in fact, the establishment of women’s studies programs offered the stability for new theories of feminism to emerge: including feminist standpoint epistemology. One of the scholars associated with developing this theory, Sandra Harding began her career at the University of Delaware as an assistant professor in philosophy with a joint appointment in women’s studies. She remained at the University of Delaware, where she wrote many of her most impactful pieces for twenty years. Her presence, along with others, raised the profile of women’s studies at UD to the national stage
Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Violence
UD saw people unite in the “take back the night” march to protest crimes against women as well as demands for a full time salaried SOS Coordinator in the 80s.
Reproductive Justice
The campus witnessed a mix of pro-choice and pro-life as UD hosted pro-life activist Dr. Bernard Nathanson while the Review also advertised for a women’s medical center in PA with an outpatient abortion facility.
LGBTQ+ Rights and Representation
UD students participated in a “Jeans Day” to raise consciousness around and remove stigma from students who identify as gay
Racial Justice
The University’s Minority Center changed its name to the Center for Black Culture and also held several programs in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Women’s Studies developed Research on Racism, a one-credit course and lecture series to provide a University-wide forum on the subject of racism and to encourage further research and teaching about racism.