Laura Bush: First Feminist?

May 13, 2006 — -- First Lady Laura Bush identified herself as a "feminist" in an interview to air on "This Week with George Stephanopoulos," tacitly agreeing with noted historian Carl Anthony, who has suggested her efforts to educate women in all parts of the world have sparked a new kind of "international feminism."

"A lot of what I do internationally does have to do with women's issues, with women's rights, with the education of women and girls," the first lady said in a Mother's Day appearance on "This Week," "because it's so important and because women -- as we saw in Afghanistan -- and girls have been left out, actually forbidden to be educated."

The former librarian has used much of her clout during her husband's administration to advocate education and reading intiatives for girls and boys, alike.

"You can't tell me that mothers and fathers don't love their daughters," she said. "I know they do and want the best thing for their daughters and their sons the world over. I truly believe that. And if women are educated, then they're more likely to be able to make wise and healthy decisions for their children."

Watch "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" Sunday to see the rest of ABC News' interview with Laura Bush. Check your local listings for air times.