I was struck by something in particular while reading my articles on Anne Hutchinson. Both stated her leadership in prayer groups. Her personal group including sixty members, both male and female, and included some political heavy-weights, including Henry Vale, a former governor. This was a time when a woman's voice and opinion were hardly heard, nor wanted. But Anne Hutchinson made sure she was heard, and people, for some time, wanted to hear what she had to say.
There's talk of how woman aren't involved much in government. This is true. Ours is still a society where the a man, typically white, makes the decisions. We're working on bringing women and minorities into the mix, but it's a long, tricky process.
Anne Hutchinson was a trail-blazer. Though she was excommunicated and banished, her contributions to society were eventually recognized. Not enough women look to her as a role model. I don't think many truly understand the sacrifices she made to be heard. If they did, I think more women would be making strides in leadership positions, and acknowledging her for inspiration and guidance.
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