Uppity Women Unite badge

This badge is significant because it features a globally distributed feminist slogan which originated in the 1960s-70s feminism movement in the United States. It was made by a novelties company in Washington D.C. and was one of many protest objects made for women and allies to wear in support of the drawn-out struggle for the Equal Rights Amendment (which was finally ratified in 2020). Women challenged traditional societal roles and debated issues involving sexuality, reproductive rights, gender equality, etc.

The empowering slogan ‘Uppity Women Unite’ reclaims the troublesome word ‘uppity’. The word was mockingly used by feminists in response to the idea that women should stay ‘in their proper place’ (e.g. at home as wives and mothers).

‘Uppity’ had long been applied to anyone who refused to stay in their ‘stations’ (women and people of colour often being targets). For example, in colonial New Zealand, domestic workers were in demand, so women had more bargaining power here than in Britain. As a result, wealthy classes complained about the ‘uppity servant problem’.