Code Pink: The 21st century mothers of invention

As women in the USA move forward with their activism, they must appreciate the great advances brought about by the women pioneers who came before. Because of the noble and heroic work of their predecessors, the women of today are able to venture beyond issues of women's rights and gender inequality. Although there is still much to be accomplished on these fronts, the current injustices wrought by corporate globalization, US imperialism, unjustifiable wars, and religious fanaticism, have redirected women activists from the national stage into the global arena. Linda Milazzo introduces Code Pink as a key women's organization that collaborates closely with social justice organizations throughout the world. It has put a new face on women's activism with a fierceness and creativity that would make Susan B. Anthony grin, and blush, all at the same time. Unlike its feminist forerunners, who chose message above fashion, and ‘Ms.’ over ‘Mademoiselle’, Code Pink has brazenly invented a cheeky new chic. Milazzo argues that Code Pink is the activist equivalent of Victoria's Secret catalog (a US publication of sexy lingerie) meets the Nation Magazine, employing flash and femininity to promote socio-political change. Development (2005) 48, 100–104. doi:10.1057/palgrave.development.1100130