‘A male’s role is to raise their voices and support’
Amy Petrie, founder of South Jersey Adventures, takes a look at how women have empowered others throughout history in South Jersey.
Founder of South Jersey Adventures and South Jersey Made, Amy Petrie finds joy in the cultural uniqueness of the area. South Jersey Adventures works to educate and celebrate the historical background of the region, while South Jersey Made connects artists, venues and consumers with the goal of promoting small businesses in the area.
Petrie recognizes the strong women and activism engrained in South Jersey. Alice Paul, a major leader in Women’s suffrage movement, was born and raised in the region, while Harriet Tubman worked in the area, taking more than 19 trips between the South and South Jersey in the Underground Railroad.
“We’re still fighting the same battles today as we were before,” Petrie said.
Petrie believes empowerment comes from education, asking questions and getting involved with issues you want to see changed.
“Get educated on your own. Check sources for things you hear in the news, and articles online,” Petrie said. “Get involved, volunteer, and get involved with your local government because that’s what affects us most directly.”
On raising her 19-month-old and 15-year-old daughters, Petrie said she wants them to be speculative of comments, or actions, that don’t feel right to them.
“I’m going to raise them to be strong women so when they see or hear something that they think is wrong, they question it. Always question it. Whether it is in school, from a politician, from someone walking down the street, they need to educate themselves and question things,” Petrie said.
Her husband was never fully invested in politics, she said, until this year’s administration turnover. According to Petrie, a male’s role in women’s activism is support.
“A male’s role is to raise their voices and support as well,” Petrie said. “We all have to work together, regardless of sex, race, religion and gender.”
Women in Gloucester County believe education, advocacy and determination is how women can make a difference globally and locally this International Women’s Day — and beyond. Hear more empowered voices from women in Gloucester County here.
