A Woman is Not Just a Female.

The intent of this paper is to illustrate that within the feminist movement there are sub groups that have to be examined if the movement is to be successful. With the heightened consciousness of women across the nation and the increased competition for the scarce number of well-paying, meaningful jobs, it is important that minorities understand not only each other, but also the scope and implications of the feminist movement. Sexism has been of secondary importance to ethnic minority women because of the overshadowing effects of the racist behavior they have been forced to endure. A woman is not just seen as a female in the labor market, but is perceived as part of a specific racial group. If unemployment rates for Black teenagers are examined separately, it is apparent that this group is even more severely disadvantaged than minority teenagers as a whole. If individual income is examined, it is found that minority women are at the bottom of the ladder. Such examples illustrate that in the labor market the problems of ethnic minorities (women) are compounded. Extensive research is needed in order to gain significant data in areas such as those discussed. This information is also relevant with respect to the formulation of strategies and the implementation of programs in the struggle for women's rights. (Author/JM)