Founded the Veteran Feminists of America, a organization dedicated to preserving the history of the women's liberation movement and honoring its pioneers. Known for her tireless efforts to amplify the voices of feminist activists.
Jacqueline Ceballos is a renowned American feminist and activist, best known for her role as the former president of the New York Chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) and founder of the Veteran Feminists of America organization, which documents the history of Second-Wave feminism and pioneer feminists.
Born on September 8, 1925, in Mamou, Louisiana, Ceballos was the middle child of seven children to Louis Michot and Adele Domas. She attended public school in Lafayette and studied music at Southwestern Louisiana Institute, majoring in voice. After moving to New York City to pursue a career in opera, Ceballos married Colombian businessman Alvaro Ceballos in 1951 and had four children with him.
During her time in Bogota, Colombia, where her family moved in 1958, Ceballos founded the city's first opera company, El Teatro Experimental de la Opera. It was during the breakup of her marriage that Ceballos discovered Betty Friedan's The Feminine Mystique, which inspired her to become an activist in the feminist movement.
In 1967, Ceballos returned to New York City with her four children and attended her first National Organization for Women (NOW) meeting. She soon became an integral part of NOW, serving on the boards at the national and local levels from 1967-1973. Ceballos formed a public relations committee and speakers bureau, and co-founded the New Feminist Theater.
In 1971, Ceballos became the president of New York NOW, and it was during this time that she participated in a landmark debate on sexual politics with Norman Mailer, Germaine Greer, and others. This iconic debate was recorded in the 1979 film Town Bloody Hall.
In 1992, Ceballos founded the Veteran Feminists of America (VFA), an organization dedicated to documenting the history of Second-Wave feminism and pioneer feminists. VFA aims to preserve the legacy of women who have made significant contributions to the feminist movement, ensuring that their stories and achievements are not forgotten.
Ceballos' tireless work as a feminist activist has had a profound impact on modern society. Her contributions have paved the way for future generations of feminists, and her commitment to preserving the history of the feminist movement has ensured that the stories of pioneering women are remembered and celebrated.
Ceballos' remarkable life and achievements have been recognized through her feature in the feminist history film She's Beautiful When She's Angry. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower women, serving as a testament to the power of activism and dedication.
Jacqueline Ceballos' remarkable life and achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the importance of preserving the history of the feminist movement and celebrating the contributions of pioneering women.
92 Years Old
A pioneering figure in the feminist movement, co-founding the Women's Media Center to promote women's voices and representation in media. Known for her tireless advocacy and inspiring leadership.
Born in 1921
Pioneering feminist author who wrote "The Feminine Mystique," a groundbreaking book that sparked the modern women's liberation movement by challenging traditional gender roles. Known for inspiring a generation of women to demand equal rights and opportunities.
Born in 1924
A trailblazing African American congresswoman who broke racial and gender barriers, advocating for education, women's rights, and the poor. She was the first woman to run for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1972.
Born in 1920
A pioneering feminist and civil rights advocate who fought for social justice and equality, particularly for women's rights, in the US Congress and beyond.
