The Lavender Menace

The Lavender Menace refers to a term used in the 1970s to describe the emerging visibility and activism of lesbian feminists and their efforts to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within the feminist movement. The phrase originated from the perceived threat that lesbian activists posed to the dominant narratives in feminism, which often prioritized issues related to heterosexual women. The Lavender Menace highlighted the intersection of sexuality and gender politics, emphasizing that feminism should be inclusive of all women's experiences, including those of lesbians. It marked a significant moment in the broader fight for gender and sexual equality.