I have read several of your books, follow you on Substack and Instagram, and attend your Permaculture and Ritual courses. Amongst all of my learnings, this is my favorite truth story that you share. I learned about some of this when writing my dissertation decades ago, and it helped me when I was raising my son. It is a core truth that needs so much more exposure. Thank you for putting it here to share easily with others!
💯 Understanding patriarchy (thanks and RIP to bell hooks) was the most liberating part of my politicization. for others interested in a deep dive and some thoughts on how we get free, sharing some reflections/conclusions here: https://citizenstout.substack.com/p/why-does-patriarchy-persist-part-e2d
(that said, it has been my own conclusion that while the tenets of feminism as I understand it -- I am drawn to Black and indigenous feminisms in particular -- are the path forward, the term itself is no longer fit for purpose; I speak instead of Liberation and belonging)
Patriarchy kills plain and simple and sad. Matriarchy gives life. The earliest civilizations were Matriarchal and Goddess
oriented as historically proven. Women were the priestesses, healers and teachers. And it was a kinder and gentler world 🌎 I as a man hope and pray 🙏 for the return of such a world and society Starhawk and friends. Blessed be.
I’m one man who is onboard with Goddess spirituality and Goddess oriented Feminism as I see the need for a kinder gentler leadership which honours all LIFE and Nature across the board. A true man doesn’t feel threatened by Feminine empowerment, I certainly don’t. I’ve the Feminine Principle in me as well. To be totally Masculine makes one a brute I’ve always believed. Balance is the key. So I as a man say “more power to the ladies” as I think 🤔 it would make for a better and kinder and gentler world 🌎 I’m a lifelong Starhawk fan and wish you peace ✌️ and amazing health and please keep up the wonderful work you’re doing in our world. Blessed be from me. Robert Lackstein in Montreal Quebec Canada 🇨🇦
👏👏👏 Brilliant Starhawk, thank you for all your work and for reminding us... we have not always been this way.... we DO KNOW BETTER, AND WE CAN BE BETTER!!!
I was in the British Museum last week, looking at the sculptures from the Assyrian place at Nimrud. All about death, enslaving and killing horribly other humans, and captive lions released from cages to be murdered by the king in a chariot (hard a fair fight). The beauty and accomplishment of the sculptures is heart-rending, considering their content. If only such exquisite artistry could have been employed to depict peaceful, loving scenes.
Thank you, Starhawk. I just finished reading Truth or Dare. This book should be read by everyone. If that happens, and they take your words to heart, our world would change for the better!
Great peaceful protest today Starhawk! Glad your wise advice was heeded. You American friends of this Canadian ally are getting your country and democracy back and soon. Keep the faith 🤝Blessed be🙏
Dear Starhawk. I have been an admirer of your work from afar, and now I am grateful to Substack for bringing me closer to your personhood and expressions. This article speaks to me absolutely. Many years ago, I began the transformation from living in patriarchy (as society demands) to embracing the Divine Feminine as it lives and breathes in the world. I studied the stories that you reference. Innana became my divine mentor along with so many other goddess incarnations.
I came to Substack to write about the human fascial system and its abilities to connect all with all. Nearing completion of this series, and considering where to go with writing, I have thought to explore again the world of 'herstory'- the matrifocal civilizations based on life-giving principles such as you are describing here.
Thank you for sharing this. I know your personhood to be one of inspiration. I appreciate your voice in this place and your inspiration in support of my own voice.
Gosh, that makes me sad and angry. I’m a feminist and I have no desire to castrate you. I want equal rights. I want the ability to walk down the street at night, or backpack solo, without fearing I will be raped. I want an end to men wielding the threat of nuclear warfare over billions of people.
Where did you get the idea that feminism wants to castrate you?
This entry is so informitted, profound, enlightening, and generally wonderful writing!!! Thank you Starhawk!!
I have read several of your books, follow you on Substack and Instagram, and attend your Permaculture and Ritual courses. Amongst all of my learnings, this is my favorite truth story that you share. I learned about some of this when writing my dissertation decades ago, and it helped me when I was raising my son. It is a core truth that needs so much more exposure. Thank you for putting it here to share easily with others!
💯 Understanding patriarchy (thanks and RIP to bell hooks) was the most liberating part of my politicization. for others interested in a deep dive and some thoughts on how we get free, sharing some reflections/conclusions here: https://citizenstout.substack.com/p/why-does-patriarchy-persist-part-e2d
(that said, it has been my own conclusion that while the tenets of feminism as I understand it -- I am drawn to Black and indigenous feminisms in particular -- are the path forward, the term itself is no longer fit for purpose; I speak instead of Liberation and belonging)
Patriarchy kills plain and simple and sad. Matriarchy gives life. The earliest civilizations were Matriarchal and Goddess
oriented as historically proven. Women were the priestesses, healers and teachers. And it was a kinder and gentler world 🌎 I as a man hope and pray 🙏 for the return of such a world and society Starhawk and friends. Blessed be.
I’m one man who is onboard with Goddess spirituality and Goddess oriented Feminism as I see the need for a kinder gentler leadership which honours all LIFE and Nature across the board. A true man doesn’t feel threatened by Feminine empowerment, I certainly don’t. I’ve the Feminine Principle in me as well. To be totally Masculine makes one a brute I’ve always believed. Balance is the key. So I as a man say “more power to the ladies” as I think 🤔 it would make for a better and kinder and gentler world 🌎 I’m a lifelong Starhawk fan and wish you peace ✌️ and amazing health and please keep up the wonderful work you’re doing in our world. Blessed be from me. Robert Lackstein in Montreal Quebec Canada 🇨🇦
👏👏👏 Brilliant Starhawk, thank you for all your work and for reminding us... we have not always been this way.... we DO KNOW BETTER, AND WE CAN BE BETTER!!!
I was in the British Museum last week, looking at the sculptures from the Assyrian place at Nimrud. All about death, enslaving and killing horribly other humans, and captive lions released from cages to be murdered by the king in a chariot (hard a fair fight). The beauty and accomplishment of the sculptures is heart-rending, considering their content. If only such exquisite artistry could have been employed to depict peaceful, loving scenes.
Thank you, Starhawk. I just finished reading Truth or Dare. This book should be read by everyone. If that happens, and they take your words to heart, our world would change for the better!
Great peaceful protest today Starhawk! Glad your wise advice was heeded. You American friends of this Canadian ally are getting your country and democracy back and soon. Keep the faith 🤝Blessed be🙏
Dear Starhawk. I have been an admirer of your work from afar, and now I am grateful to Substack for bringing me closer to your personhood and expressions. This article speaks to me absolutely. Many years ago, I began the transformation from living in patriarchy (as society demands) to embracing the Divine Feminine as it lives and breathes in the world. I studied the stories that you reference. Innana became my divine mentor along with so many other goddess incarnations.
I came to Substack to write about the human fascial system and its abilities to connect all with all. Nearing completion of this series, and considering where to go with writing, I have thought to explore again the world of 'herstory'- the matrifocal civilizations based on life-giving principles such as you are describing here.
Thank you for sharing this. I know your personhood to be one of inspiration. I appreciate your voice in this place and your inspiration in support of my own voice.
Soon- Sarah Soltow
https://sarahsoltow.substack.com/p/our-connection-to-light?r=3axdhy
That's cool. I'll fight both, thank you. If patriarchy wants to kill me, feminism wants to castrate me. You can keep 'em both.
Gosh, that makes me sad and angry. I’m a feminist and I have no desire to castrate you. I want equal rights. I want the ability to walk down the street at night, or backpack solo, without fearing I will be raped. I want an end to men wielding the threat of nuclear warfare over billions of people.
Where did you get the idea that feminism wants to castrate you?
Thanks for this Starhawk. Very needed at this time.
Brilliant. Says it all!