We explore how the subculture of “Riot Grrls” has been applied to the lives of bands formed in Denver in the 90s and compare that with more recent bands. Their stories of discovering and becoming Riot Grrrls will show how feminism in the music space has changed and given a diverse range of people the ability to share their experiences and perspectives. We want to answer the question of if the term “Riot Grrrl” still holds relevance in the punk space or if its tendency towards exclusionary feminism is seen as problematic today.

It’s important to reflect on the history of the Riot Grrrl movement and how it opened doors for women in the punk space in the 1990s, but has room for critique as feminism has taken on a more intersectional lens. Punk music is still incredibly popular and yet still incredibly male-dominated, which is why this story needs to highlight a more diverse range of voices.