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Why Michelle Obama inspires women around the globe – CNN.com

Those who focus on Michelle Obama’s impact on America are underestimating her reach. The first lady is inspiring women of color around the globe to look at themselves, and America, in fresh ways. See photos of past first ladies »

“She might be the first woman of color that females in male-dominated countries have seen as confident, bright, educated, articulate and persuasive,” says Barbara Perry, author of “Jacqueline Kennedy: First Lady of the New Frontier.”

A symbol for women around the globe

The notion of a woman being a first in anything is alien in many parts of the world. Millions of women struggle against sexual violence, discrimination and poverty, several women activists say.

But Michelle Obama offers a personal rebuke to that message. Her personal story — born into a blue-collar family; overcoming racism and once even making more money than her husband — makes her a mesmerizing figure to women across the globe, says Susan M. Reverby, a professor of women’s studies at Wellesley College in Massachusetts.

Reverby says this is the first time many women have seen their class and color reflected in America’s first lady. Watch how Michelle Obama has done during her first 100 days »

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