Final answer:
African American women were drawn to feminism through their experiences in the abolitionist and civil rights movements, as those struggles highlighted the intersections of racial and gender discrimination. The realization, catalyzed by historical figures and seminal texts such as Betty Friedan's 'The Feminine Mystique,' led to the recognition that feminism must include diverse voices to effectively combat oppression. Labor movements and economic participation further demonstrated the need for equal rights and pay.
Step-by-step explanation:
The attraction of many African American women to feminism can be illuminated by historical socio-political movements that emphasized equality and rights for marginalized groups. As agents in these movements, African American women often found parallels between the struggle for racial equality and gender equality. The abolitionist movement, for example, revealed to many women their own lack of autonomy and power, fostering the seed for the women's rights movement.
During the 1960s, the civil rights movement, alongside further examination of women's role in society, propelled by Betty Friedan's 'The Feminine Mystique,' heightened awareness of the systemic discrimination faced by African American women. This led to a more inclusive feminist movement. The Combahee River Collective's 'Black Feminist Statement' in 1977 highlighted the intersectionality of race and gender, amplifying the unique experiences of black women within the feminist discourse.
Furthermore, engagement in labor movements and wartime duties demonstrated women’s capabilities and laid the groundwork for expanded economic and political rights. African American women who found themselves earning less than their white counterparts also advocated for equal pay. Their successes and contributions fortified the feminist cause and raised the consciousness of discrimination's multiplicity, leading to stronger, more diverse feminist activism.