I may have spoken too soon about the weather in last month’s invitation, but I think now it’s safe to say we’re squarely into autumn. What better time for my favorite fall activity? apple picking Learning about influential women of the past while enjoying a beverage with friends in a venue that’s both cozy and chic!
Our twelfth show will take place on Wednesday, November 6, from 7–9pm in the Red Room at the KGB Bar (85 E 4th Street, at Second Ave). Doors will open a little after 6:30pm. Come all the way upstairs (two flights up the inside staircase). You’re welcome to bring outside food if you wish.
The November edition will feature a trio of women whose lives changed the political landscape of nations and continue to inspire people all over the world: a Spanish woman whose domestic violence testimony and subsequent murder led to stronger protections for women in her country, and two New York-born writers and political activists, contemporaries whose works—though very different—both aimed to improve the world. Hosted by (surprise!) Molly O’Laughlin Kemper.
Free admission, ~ * but * ~ we do have a bar minimum to meet: please plan to buy a drink or two to ensure the future of DLS NYC at KGB’s RED ROOM.
ANA ORANTES (1937–1997) was thrust into the Spanish public consciousness on December 4, 1997, when her electrifying testimony of the domestic violence she had suffered for 40 years made visible the previously overlooked phenomenon of gender violence. Thirteen days later, she was murdered by her ex-husband. Her story provoked public outcry and led to a sea change in public attitudes towards gender violence. Shortly after her death, the Spanish penal code was remodeled, and today, Spain has some of the most progressive gender violence laws in the world.
SUSAN SONTAG (1933–2004) was an American intellectual, a political activist, a filmmaker, a popular icon, and a writer best known for her modern essays. Known for her sharp wit and scathing voice, Susan would combine her rebellious attitude and academic rigor to create brilliant essays including her best works “Notes on ‘Camp'” (this year’s Met Gala theme), On Photography, and The Volcano Lover. Although her essays and speeches would draw controversy, she was always searching for the truth, even if others found it cruel. She has been described as one of the most influential critics of her generation and her power lies in examining people’s work and forming critical analysis with style and conviction.
The Bronx-born child of Russian-Jewish Socialists, GRACE PALEY (1922–2007) was a feisty political activist, beloved teacher, and mostly single mother who also found the time to write groundbreaking stories, poems, essays, speeches, reportage, and leaflets that she’d hand out on street corners. Both a postmodern innovator and a portrayer of traditionally underrepresented lives, such as those of working class women and children, she possessed a unique, vivid voice filled with humor and humanity. George Saunders wrote of her ability to “let language sing, sing precisely, and let it off the tether of the mundane, and watch the wonderful truth it knows how to make.”
About your presenters:
KAREN KLATZKIN teaches English literature at Borough of Manhattan Community College and has a Doctorate in English Education from Teachers College, Columbia University.
SIAN CREELY is an occasional translator and sometime woman. She has an MPhil in Latin American Studies from the University of Cambridge and is from Manchester UK. She works in women’s rights.
ELIZA HOYLAND is an Australian commercial photographer and producer currently residing in New York City.
The Dead Ladies Show 