The Advancing Presence of Women in the Far-Right Movement: Redefining Traditional Roles

Women’s Growing Role in the Far-Right Movement

Introduction

A new trend is emerging within the far-right movement in the US – the increasing involvement of women. While they may operate behind the scenes, spreading conspiracy theories through social media and quietly recruiting new members, “alt-right” women have also taken on influential public-facing roles in rightwing media and far-right politics.

Underestimated Power

Contrary to popular belief, far-right women wield significant power. Dr Sandra Jeppesen, a professor of media and communications at Lakehead University, points out that they have played pivotal roles in events like the January 6 attack on the Capitol and now lead powerful groups such as Moms for Liberty.

Influence in Media

Many high-profile far-right conservative women, including Fox News commentator Tomi Lahren and Canadian YouTuber Lauren Southern, have amassed large followings and substantial wealth through their production of conservative media and rightwing propaganda. Even “Tradwives” who promote traditional gender roles generate income from their social media content.

Pursuit of Power

According to Dr Jeppesen, far-right women enter politics not out of altruism but a desire for power. Like their male counterparts, they believe there is a crisis and feel compelled to take extraordinary action. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the extremist congresswoman from Georgia, used social media to mobilize people to the Capitol, demonstrating the influential role women can play in inciting and organizing extremist action.

Women’s Role in Capitol Attack

While Marjorie Taylor Greene attracted insurrectionists to Washington DC through her social media presence, Women for America First, a far-right election-denial group, held the permit for the rally outside the White House and coordinated the march that led to the January 6 riot. Female insurrectionists like Jessica Watkins, an Oath Keepers member, played key roles in organizing the attack and spreading election denial conspiracies.

Moms for Liberty

A significant force within the far-right movement is Moms for Liberty, a group initially focused on parents’ rights but has now become a prominent advocate for book bans. Conservative mothers who are members of this group aim to influence US education and oppose anything that challenges their far-right view of child-rearing.

Recruitment Tactics

The far-right exploits the appeal of children’s safety to recruit new members. Women from the movement build connections with other parents, using their vulnerability as a way to introduce them to QAnon conspiracy theories and anti-government sentiment. This recruitment strategy is also employed online, with women in the “mommy blogger aesthetic” on Instagram gradually transitioning from sharing idyllic images to spreading conspiracy theories.

Psychological Profile

Research indicates that women who join the far-right movement often have similar psychological profiles to those at risk of joining cults. They are susceptible to manipulation and radicalization, leading them to embrace extreme ideologies.

Women have become powerful agents within the far-right movement, exerting influence through social media, political activism, and organizing events. It is crucial to recognize and understand the growing role of women in these extremist circles to effectively counter their harmful impact on society.

Read More of this Story at www.theguardian.com – 2023-08-12 17:51:00