Writing History
The story of Marie Equi appealed to me from my first exposure to her exploits. I appreciated her singular determination to pursue a life of meaning, to achieve what might have seemed impossible goals, and then to remain resolute and committed to her values, willing to risk all she had achieved. These aspects of her character inspired me to devote years of research into her life, confident that her largely hidden story would appeal to a wide audience and contribute to a greater history of the country, of the Pacific Northwest, of radical politics and, in particular of the roles of women and lesbians. How she lived her life – at times successfully balancing the demands of a profession, a long-term relationship, and a devotion to political change – resonates with the challenges and the issues we face today.
I wrote MARIE EQUI Radical Politics and Outlaw Passions because I believed her story would inspire and challenge readers today. Hers is also a cautionary tale about the limits and risks of activism. It asks, “Would we go as far and put as much on the line for our beliefs as Marie Equi did?” I also hoped to engage readers intrigued with the life of an exceptional person during a remarkable time.
I wrote MARIE EQUI Radical Politics and Outlaw Passions because I believed her story would inspire and challenge readers today. Hers is also a cautionary tale about the limits and risks of activism. It asks, “Would we go as far and put as much on the line for our beliefs as Marie Equi did?” I also hoped to engage readers intrigued with the life of an exceptional person during a remarkable time.