What is this post? Take notes from the wall label and in your own words, describe the content recorded in the image you select. What is the significance of this image and how has the photographer framed the event?
Female Police Officer, New York City
Leonard Freed
1979
Notes:
- This exhibition shows American democracy unfolding
- the photographs show numerous events of the 20th century and the present—featuring world leaders, the media, politicians, civil rights movements, and everyday Americans.
- This exhibition has been co-curated with students and faculty from the Departments of History, Political Science, Communication, Journalism, and Art, Architecture & Design.
Significance: This photograph’s significance is targeted toward civil rights, specifically those of women. For many years women have struggled to achieve equal rights. A huge focus has been in the work force. Women haven’t always been viewed as “able” to do all of the things that men are able to do. Many have claimed that women aren’t “tough” and/or “strong” and therefore not able to succeed in a profession that requires the physical and mental strain such as being a police officer. Therefore the significance of this photograph demonstrates the strides we have made in fighting the social stereotypes of females. The photographer illustrated the female officer with a proud expression, enhancing the fact that our society is working towards equal rights for women.