To the Contrary Season 21 Episode 37 Hillary Clinton's Legacy
- February 1, 2013
To the Contrary season 21 episode 37, titled "Hillary Clinton's Legacy," examines the impact of the former First Lady, Secretary of State, and presidential candidate on women's rights and gender equality in the United States.
The episode features a diverse panel of female experts and commentators who discuss the successes and shortcomings of Clinton's political career and activism. They explore the ways in which her candidacy for president, while ultimately unsuccessful, shattered glass ceilings and inspired a new generation of women to pursue leadership roles in politics and beyond.
Several of the panelists note the significance of Clinton's 1995 speech at the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, where she famously declared that "women's rights are human rights, and human rights are women's rights." They argue that this statement served as a rallying cry for feminists around the world and helped to elevate the issue of gender equality to the global stage.
However, the panelists also acknowledge the criticisms that have been leveled at Clinton over the years, including accusations of dishonesty, elitism, and a failure to connect with working class voters. They debate the extent to which these criticisms are rooted in sexism and misogyny, and the ways in which Clinton's gender may have both helped and hindered her political career.
Throughout the episode, the panelists engage in a robust and respectful dialogue about the ways in which Clinton's legacy continues to shape discussions around gender and politics in the United States. They offer nuanced and often divergent perspectives on a complex and polarizing figure, and ultimately invite viewers to consider what Clinton's enduring influence means for the future of women's empowerment.