The Role Models of Feminism in Peotone 

By: Jenna Mustafa, Peotone High School Junior and Student Guest Writer

From mothers, sisters, daughters, or even yourself, women play an important role in our society. During March, Women’s History Month was in full effect with historic women being honored throughout the entire nation, including people like Michelle Obama, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Taylor Swift. However, there are feminist role models within the Peotone community. My personal role model in the Peotone community, who is a safe haven for many, is Mrs. Jody Andriano, veteran English teacher at Peotone High School. 

I had the opportunity to interview Mrs. Andriano on why she identifies as a feminist. 

Do you consider yourself a feminist? 

Mrs. Andriano: Yes, because feminism just believes people deserve equal treatment. 

When did you become a feminist?

Mrs. Andriano: I don’t ever remember not being a feminist. I remember in junior high we were talking about the Equal Rights Amendment, and I was one of the few people who stood for it. 

How has being a feminist impacted your life?

Mrs. Andriano: On a small scale, it has helped me in raising my son in being more respectful to women. He will make a wonderful partner if/when he decides to marry.

What is a stereotype about feminists that isn’t true?

Mrs. Andriano: The main stereotype is that feminist women hate men. 

What are some daily challenges women go through men aren’t aware of?

Mrs. Andriano: I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, and the thing men don’t always consider is the hardship of motherhood – with resume gaps and being passed over for promotions because women need to care for their children. 

Other than gender equality, what are some other problems feminism can help solve?

Mrs. Andriano: Well, I think feminism has a long history of fighting for race equality. I think, in general, slight problems that slipped for hundreds of years are finally addressed. I think gender equality in feminism is the legacy of feminism.

Is feminism important to men, too? 

Mrs. Andriano: Yes, absolutely. You can’t be a U.S. citizen and identify as patriot, but pass over half the population. Men who are feminists become better fathers, as well. 

Who are feminist role models in your life?

Mrs. Andriano: My favorite feminist ever is Alice Paul. She was relentless in her fight for women’s rights to vote, and she pushed for Congress to pass the Gender Equality Act. 

Do you have any websites or book people can use to discover more information about feminism?

Mrs. Andriano: One of my favorite movies is Iron Jawed Angels. Hood Feminism is another important book about feminism, I really liked that. 

Mrs. Andriano has been an important role model in my life. Not only in feminism, but as an empowered woman in Peotone.

Jenna Mustafa’s article is the first in a series of guest student writers from Peotone High School. In a partnership with The Vedette, student writers will be published in efforts to revive The Devil’s Advocate student newspaper and teach future writers a sense of involvement in their community.