Meaning: Kate Millett, a prominent feminist activist, made this statement to express her surprise at how her advocacy for women's liberation had evolved into involvement in global political issues. The quote encapsulates the journey of many feminist activists who initially focused on gender equality but found themselves drawn into broader social and political movements. It also reflects the interconnectedness of various social justice causes and the way in which individual activism can lead to broader societal and global impacts.

Kate Millett was a leading figure in the feminist movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Her groundbreaking book, "Sexual Politics," challenged traditional views of gender and power, and she was instrumental in shaping the discourse around women's liberation. Millett's work was foundational in the development of feminist theory and activism, and she played a key role in raising awareness about issues such as gender discrimination, sexual liberation, and reproductive rights.

The quote suggests that Millett's initial intention was to advocate for women's liberation, a cause that was central to the feminist movement at the time. However, as her activism gained momentum, she found herself increasingly involved in international politics. This shift demonstrates the interconnectedness of various social justice causes and the way in which individual activism can lead to broader societal and global impacts.

Millett's journey from women's liberation to international politics reflects the evolution of many feminist activists who, in their pursuit of gender equality, became attuned to the broader social and political issues affecting women around the world. This expansion of focus is indicative of the interconnected nature of social justice causes and the recognition that gender equality is intertwined with larger systemic issues such as economic inequality, racial discrimination, and geopolitical power dynamics.

The quote also highlights the transformative power of activism. Millett's initial focus on women's liberation led her to engage with broader global issues, demonstrating how individual activism can have far-reaching implications beyond its original scope. This expansion of focus underscores the interconnectedness of social justice causes and the need for a multifaceted approach to addressing systemic inequalities.

Furthermore, the quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of feminist activism in the context of international politics. Millett's transition from women's liberation to international politics underscores the need for feminist perspectives in shaping global policies and addressing issues such as war, human rights violations, and economic disparities. It emphasizes the importance of intersectional feminism, which recognizes the interconnected nature of different forms of oppression and seeks to address them holistically.

In conclusion, Kate Millett's quote encapsulates the transformative nature of activism and the interconnectedness of social justice causes. Her journey from women's liberation to international politics serves as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of feminist perspectives in shaping global discourse and policies. It also underscores the need for a multifaceted approach to addressing systemic inequalities and the interconnected nature of various social justice causes.