RIOT GRRRL

Beginning as a challenge to the punk movement, a subculture that was violent, self-destructive, and misogynist, Riot Grrrl was the collective result of a small group of smart, angry women that eventually became an international movement and influenced multiple generations of girls. The movement aimed to revivify feminism, foregrounding sexual and physical violence against women while supporting young women’s sexual expression and right to pleasure. A direct response to the dominance of straight white men in the punk scene, riot grrrl encouraged women to play instruments and start bands, write and distribute zines and share experiences in the safe all-girl spaces of riot grrrl meetings.

My goal was to create a safe and inclusive space that liberates young women. This space allows women to express themselves, share stories, speak out loud, build confidence, and build relationships with other girls. They do this by making zines, art, performing music, holding meetings, and taking political action. The space is meant reappropriate the punk rock scene that was dominated by straight white male bands. It is meant to be inclusive of all women, queer and bipoc folk. Finally, it embodies resistance, intersectionality, and feminist values.