Equality In America Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Words: 555
Pages: 3

In her speech delivered to the 1997 graduating class of Mount Holyoke College, Secretary of State Madeline Albright employs historical examples, emotional appeal, and parallel structure to convey her message: anybody can make a difference in the world as long as they choose to fight against injustice, even when the opposition seems immeasurable. In an encouraging and urgent tone, Albright dismantles the notion that once a minimum goal is achieved, further action becomes unnecessary. As the first female to become the Secretary of State of the United States, Albright brings a unique perspective, empathizing with the challenges and aspirations of women striving for change in the graduating class and around the world. Madeline Albright first uses …show more content…
Moreover, it showcases moments where society could have chosen to settle but instead chose to press forward. Through this, Albright challenges the idea that complacency leads to progress, but instead, meaningful change is achieved with persistent action. Albright employs emotional appeal to establish a connection with her audience and to challenge complacency. She evokes imagery of past injustice, such as being told to “women could now lower our voices” and “sit sedately down,” to remind the audience of the gender inequality, as they were not treated equally to men. The reminders of this injustice compel the audience to empathize with the struggles women have faced and the progress made. However, Albright offers hope, utilizing personal anecdotes of women’s perseverance around the world. She recounts, “In Burundi, I have seen women taking the lead,” and “In Guatemala, I have talked to women striving to ensure that their new peace endures.” By using these examples, she perfectly illustrates the recent societal advancements made by women. If the women of the past choose not to expand their societal boundaries, then the present status of women would not be