Remembering Notorious RBG
I, like many Americans, have been incredibly saddened by the state of our country over the last year (really, since 2016 if I’m being honest). That sadness grew to new heights when, last Friday, we lost an icon of civil and human rights when she left this world. That icon is, of course, the honorable Ruth Bader Ginsburg, or Notorious RBG as she is fondly referred to. You don’t need me to tell you why she means so much to so many — or why we, like her, might be nervous and a bit afraid of a Supreme Court without her — but I did impulse (is “panic” a more correct term?) purchase a costume for Halloween so that I could honor her on the oddest of holidays. I am fully aware that the COVID-19 pandemic likely means I’ll do even less for Halloween than I do during “normal” years, but I just could help it. So, today, in case others out there want to do the same, or alternatively have the urge to consume her story through film, books or TV, I’ve rounded up a list to help you do just that.
Costume
For those of you interested in honoring the justice by dressing up as her for Halloweens and costume parties of the future, here are links to my Amazon purchases:
Glasses | Collar | Crown | Gavel
Film - “On the Basis of Sex”
I have not seen this yet, sadly, but it has shot to the top of my list and feels like a necessary inclusion regardless. Watch the trailer above! “On the Basis of Sex” is available to stream through Showtime and for rent or purchase via platforms like Amazon, Vudu and iTunes.
Book - “My Own Words”
This book is co-authored by RBG herself and is crafted as a collection of her writings, speeches, and — yes — dissents. Content within the book even dates as far back as eighth grade in the justice’s life.
Documentary - “RBG”
I went to this opening weekend and loved every second of it. Check out the trailer above and tell me you’re not inspired. The film is currently streaming on Hulu and available for rent or purchase through platforms like Amazon, Vudu and iTunes.
Book - “Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg”
Inspired by a Tumblr account that tickled RBG herself and published in 2015, this is a fun book honoring her legacy. (Bonus: If you’re looking for a children’s book, look no further than “I Dissent” from Simon & Schuster.)
Bonus: Saturday Night Live
For anyone who follows SNL impressions, Kate McKinnon’s RBG is one of my favorite things from the show in recent years. Especially fun is the coining of “Gins-burn” and all the dancing and workout references. :)