Letter from the Editor

Empowerment. At its core, the fourth wave of feminism is a proponent of empowerment across the board. Over the last 170 years, western feminism has marched onward for women’s rights, but a vital facet has been missing until the most recent wave: true equality.

Each wave has fought for something: the first for a right to vote and the second for social rights, but both waves neglected to acknowledge and actively include people of color and minorities. Since we’re currently in the midst of another wave, it’s unclear whether this is still part of the third wave or a new fourth wave, but one thing’s for sure: this one’s different.

Modern feminism is intersectional. It’s not limited to race, class, or creed— it’s for anyone who believes in equality and the power it holds.

This issue celebrates the women of Montana in honor of Women’s History Month— women who have broken molds, paved their way, supported others along the way, and at the core are their own sincere, uninhibited selves. I’ve loved each issue I’ve worked with, but this one’s different. Each issue has shown the community we have in Montana, but this one yells it out. There are so many bold, driven, talented women in this state, and this is just part of that fraction. It’s incredibly humbling to work with the people in this issue and to have a platform for them. For me, that’s what so magical about Montana Woman. It’s empowering to empower others, even if it feels like something small. Every bit of support matters to someone. Every voice is a thousand voices, every story an echo.

May you find yourself in this issue, may you feel heard and understood. From the blue peaks of the Rocky Mountain front to the gumbo hills of Missouri River breaks, the sweet sage air of the east to the cool cedar mist of the west— one voice alone may feel small, but together we can build a wave.