August Psychic Newsletter
Spiritualism and the Rise of Feminism: A Forgotten Revolution of Spirit and Equality
“Spiritualism has inaugurated the era of woman,” proclaimed Mary Davis in 1880. As early as the mid to late 1800’s, Spiritualist conventions, gatherings and writings all called for the emancipation of women. Those who assumed the most radical positions on woman’s rights became Spiritualists, for example, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who was also a close friend of Cora Richmond – my spirit guide. This shouldn’t be surprising since all evolutionary steps can be traced to the spirit world’s guidance and intervention.
The Comstock Book Burnings
Back in the 1800’s not all feminists were Spiritualists, but all Spiritualists advocated equality for women. Women were equal to men within a Spiritualist practice, polity, and ideology. This was inherent in a religious practice in which truth was revealed to individuals without recourse to an external authority (always males and typically Priests). In the mid 19th century there were eleven million Spiritualists out of a population of twenty-five million in the US. This growing faith spread fast around the world but was severely crippled when it was subjected to the massive book burnings with the Comstock book censorship law.
The mid-19th century spiritualist movement was the cyclonic force of the feminist movement. In manner of dress, the right to speak in public forums, to own their own money, to be spiritual leaders, and to declare a woman’s right to equality, the spiritualists cleared the path. In Spiritualism the place of worship was relocated to the home from church, or temple. Spirit circles gathered around parlour tables, a most appropriate place for women to preside.
The medical society deemed mediumship a medical disorder causing rebellion against gender roles. On the other hand, Spiritualism taught women to exercise self-healing properties in her own nature and to develop a more egalitarian relationship with her doctor. Now those who warn of the illness in our air and oceans are called extremists, alarmists and negativists. It’s never been popular to be an environmentalist. We’ve been called, “Unrealistic, anti-business, and regressive.”
The persecution of the young female medium suffered at the hands of self- proclaimed psychic investigators was reminiscent of the earlier witch hunts. Mediums were bound to chairs, locked in small cupboards, naked, supposedly to assure sitters they weren’t hiding any tricks in their skirts.
Despite this stress, mediums were expected to provide proof that they communed with the spirit world which a surprising number of them succeeded in doing!
More Prophecy than Prescription
Equality between the sexes was lauded from the spiritualists as a spiritual imperative from the spirit world meaning that it was divinely prescribed and ordained. Spiritualists believed, as one advocate put it, that woman’s freedom is the world’s redemption. Today we know that was more prophecy than prescription.
The seeds of modernism, psychoanalysis, communications, human rights, longevity were all brought from the unseen world to the seen in this most spiritual, glorious age.
The her/history of religion has taught us that the further we move in time away from the original spiritual message, the more it morphs, disintegrates, and ultimately decays. Spirituality is a dynamic force and has the power to alter the consciousness of humans, the course of our collective destiny and ultimately our ability to thrive. Its temple is the heart, its expression is in the actions we take every day of our lives.
The Untold Herstory of Spiritualism: How Mystic Women Dared to Defy Oppression
If you are inspired by the marriage of feminism and spiritualism, I recommend you research this fascinating spiritual herstory. It’s a study rich in joy, surprise and affirmation. I’d recommend you start with Radical Spirits by Ann Braude, 1989.
If you would like to explore more about YOUR spirit guide contact me for a reading!
Quote:
“Woman’s Era is here; her right to half the knowledge of the universe, as well as half of the opportunities of living, is daily receiving more and more evidence, because of her ability to demonstrate that she is that other half of the intelligence that man has failed to reveal.“
Psychosophy by Cora Richmond, 1888
Kathleen Meadows, a name that echoes the spirit of resilience and creativity, has become a beacon of inspiration for many. Her journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, showcases the power of perseverance. Her unique perspective on life invites others to embrace their own stories, fostering a sense of community and support. Through her work, she not only celebrates her roots but also encourages those around her to explore their passions and aspirations without fear.
Another Cora Richmond Lecture Read Allowed
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If the history of Spiritualism and its empowering message resonates with you, why not explore your own spiritual connection? Your spirit guide may be waiting to reveal insights, healing, and clarity for your life’s path.
Book a personal reading with Kathleen today and step into the wisdom of your own spirit journey.
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Conclusion: Feminism, Spiritualism, and the Sacred Voice of Women
The marriage of Spiritualism and women’s rights was more than a social movement, it was a divine calling that reshaped history. By giving women equal authority in spiritual practice, Spiritualism empowered them to become leaders, healers, and truth-seekers in an age that often silenced them.
Today, this legacy continues. Spiritualism reminds us that equality, freedom, and spiritual truth are not just human ideals, but spiritual imperatives. As we look forward, embracing this sacred wisdom can help us heal ourselves, uplift society, and reconnect with the unseen forces guiding us toward balance and transformation.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Spiritualism
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