Revisiting the Bra-Burning Myth: A Misstep in 'Call the Midwife'

Decoding a Troubling Representation

It's disheartening to see 'Call the Midwife', a beloved British series known for its nuanced portrayal of female experiences, resort to outdated stereotypes about the Women's Liberation Movement (WLM). In the recent episode, we witness characters gathering to burn bras – a scene that reduces rich historical activism to mere spectacle. This act, framed for comic effect, fails to acknowledge the genuine struggles women faced during the 1970s.

The Historical Context

The WLM was not merely about symbolic gestures; it aimed at tangible changes. According to Judith Condon's letter published in The Guardian, the movement advocated for crucial rights such as equal pay, access to education, reproductive rights, and adequate childcare. The portrayal of activists engaged in bra-burning simplifies their fight into an unfortunate cliché. I find it particularly offensive that 'Call the Midwife,' a show that has previously shone light on women's realities, would bow to such an oversimplification.

Unpacking the Tropes

Let's take a moment to address the bra-burning myth itself. In truth, the trope originated from sensationalist media coverage that misconstrued the WLM's message. In Condon's words, it was a narrative adopted by tabloids that viewed women either as 'housewives or dolly birds,' neglecting the complexity of their objectives. By invoking this caricature, 'Call the Midwife' not only misrepresents history but also risks alienating its viewers.

The Impact on Contemporary Discourse

As we analyze representations of women's movements in media, it's critical to reflect on their implications today. When popular shows perpetuate outdated narratives, they can dilute feminist discourse. Current feminist movements are more than historical echoes; they call for intersectionality and inclusiveness, aspects starkly absent from a simplified depiction of bra-burning. Today, women's rights activists work tirelessly on various intersections, including race, sexuality, and economic class. Thus, media portrayals must evolve to reflect these complexities rather than reduce them to historical caricatures.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

At a moment when gender equality is still an unresolved issue worldwide, it is paramount that media representations inform rather than mislead. They shape the cultural understanding of feminism and influence public perception. Beyond the screen, these portrayals often feed into societal views that dismiss or trivialize women's struggles. It's disappointing that a show with significant viewership can miss an opportunity to educate.

“Shame on the BBC writers for having reproduced it. Jill Tweedie must be turning in her grave.” - Judith Condon

A Call to Action

In the wake of this misstep by 'Call the Midwife', I urge viewers and content creators alike to demand better representation of feminist history in media. As consumers, we hold the power to challenge shows that fail to do justice to the complex narratives of feminism.

Conclusion

While 'Call the Midwife' may be a beloved staple of British television, its latest portrayal of the Women's Liberation Movement serves as a critical reminder that how we depict history matters. Let's not allow outdated tropes to overshadow the courageous efforts of those who fought for equality. It's time for media to rise to the occasion and represent women's experiences with the respect and complexity they truly deserve.