Gender, Aging, and Activism

CRGW Research Group on “Gender, Aging and Activism”

Our research group on “Gender, Aging and Activism” (https://crgw.gws.wisc.edu/affiliated-projects/gender-aging-and-activism/) has been working together for 2 years on a community based Raging Grannies archival project. This group includes undergraduates and graduate students in Gender and Women’s Studies and Interdisciplinary Theater Studies, as well as GWS alumni.

“It’s All the Rage: Raging Grannies of Madison and Dane County

This exhibit invites audience to learn about the history of the Raging Grannies of Madison, their dynamic approach to activism, and the relationships forged through caring for their community. Since 2002 they have been part of an international Raging Grannies network including groups from the US, Canada and beyond. Performing their satirical songs across Wisconsin, they raise their voices to elevate gender and social justice issues, protect the planet, and serve current and future generations. They believe each person – young to old – has an important part to play in standing up for justice and peace.

This historical array of their hats and aprons, banners, songbooks, political buttons, and instruments, are connected to videos featuring original songs and personal stories explaining the Raging Grannies’ involvement in grassroots activist work. This exhibit highlights the wide variety of social justice issues they have supported through performances across Wisconsin. It also reveals the close relationships that have formed in the process. As one granny, Denise Peebles, put it, “We aren’t just an activist group. We are a family. These are my sisters; my ‘Sisters in Sass.’”

Audiences can scan the QR Codes throughout the exhibit to hear more stories, songs, and insight from the Raging Grannies.

Raging Grannies Outreach Opportunities

Connected to the exhibit, we also will be providing four outreach opportunities for students and community members that include the following (these might provide interesting extra credit opportunities). Raging Grannies will be on hand for each event to lead the activities and answer questions. Please see the posters for details!
1. Craftivism: Learning to crochet the Raging Grannies’ Ursula the Uterus
2. Craftivism: Learning to make protest posters and buttons
3. Raging Grannies “Sing Along”
4. Workshop: Learning to Write Songs Like the Raging Grannies