Karen DeCrow (1937-2014)
Karen DeCrow was a prominent American attorney, author, activist, and feminist who championed gender equality throughout her remarkable career. Born on December 18, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, DeCrow pursued a passion for journalism, earning a bachelor's degree from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism in 1959. After working as a journalist for several years, she embarked on a legal career, attending Syracuse University's College of Law and graduating in 1972.
DeCrow's legal expertise and unwavering commitment to women's rights led her to join the National Organization for Women (NOW) in 1967. Her sharp intellect, persuasive rhetoric, and unwavering determination quickly propelled her to leadership positions within the organization. In 1974, she became the president of NOW, a role she held for three years.
DeCrow was a strong supporter of shared parenting, also known as joint legal and physical custody of children after divorce. She believed that shared parenting was in the best interests of children, as it allowed them to maintain close relationships with both parents and benefit from the unique contributions of each.
DeCrow's position on shared parenting was somewhat controversial within the National Organization for Women (NOW), as some members felt that it could perpetuate traditional gender roles and undermine the independence of women. However, DeCrow remained steadfast in her belief that shared parenting was the most equitable and child-centered approach to custody arrangements.
DeCrow's advocacy for shared parenting was based on several factors:
Children's well-being: She believed that children thrive when they have strong relationships with both parents and can benefit from the different perspectives and experiences each parent brings.
Parental involvement: She argued that both parents should have the opportunity to be fully involved in their children's lives, regardless of their gender or marital status.
Gender equality: She believed that shared parenting was a step towards achieving gender equality, as it recognized the equal contributions of both parents in raising children.
DeCrow's advocacy for shared parenting contributed to the growing recognition of its benefits for children. Her work helped to pave the way for more equitable and child-centered custody arrangements in the United States and around the world.
