Kathleen Hanna, the feminist punk pioneer known for coining the phrase ‘girl power’ and influencing Nirvana’s biggest hit, reflects on activism, illness, and resilience in the face of abuse. In a recent interview, Hanna shared a harrowing experience from her youth that fueled her commitment to social change.

At 19, Hanna’s life took a traumatic turn when a man broke into her apartment and assaulted her roommate. Witnessing the violence and fear inflicted on her friend, Hanna felt a deep sense of urgency to take action. This pivotal moment led her to SafePlace, a local rape relief and domestic violence center, where she began volunteering and immersing herself in the realities of women’s struggles.

For Hanna, this experience was transformative, shaping her perspective and ultimately paving the way for her involvement in the feminist punk band, Bikini Kill. Founded in the early 1990s, Bikini Kill became synonymous with the riot grrrl movement, a platform for challenging misogyny through music, activism, and community engagement.

One of the defining features of Bikini Kill’s performances was Hanna’s call for ‘girls to the front,’ a symbolic gesture that not only prioritized the safety of female audience members but also symbolized the band’s larger mission of empowering women in the cultural landscape. Despite the passage of time, Hanna remains steadfast in her commitment to gender equality and social justice.

Reflecting on her journey, Hanna acknowledges the enduring impact of her early activism and the collective efforts of like-minded individuals in Olympia, Washington, who provided a supportive environment for her to explore feminist ideals. Through her music and advocacy, Hanna continues to inspire a new generation of activists and artists to challenge systemic injustices and amplify marginalized voices.