We live in times where women’s rights and their place in society have become battlegrounds on social networks and at the ballot box. Characters like Nick Fuentes, a far-right political streamer in the U.S., not only openly disparage women, but celebrate oppression and seek to incite hatred. In his recent post-election stream, Fuentes launched an incendiary slogan: “We control your body! Your body, my decision. We men won again.” This rhetoric not only seeks to denigrate women, but reinforces a macho message, disguised as “humor,” to belittle female empowerment.
It is common to feel anger and helplessness when influential public figures promote these ideas. However, the most important thing we can do now is to remember the power we have as women, as a community, and as allies in the fight for equality.
The power of women in a digital world
With the growing popularity of the internet, many women have found a space to raise their voices and stand up for their rights. And this, although difficult to digest for characters like Fuentes, is not going to stop. Social networks are also a terrain of resistance and empowerment. We see it every day: women sharing their experiences, giving each other support and creating networks that disarm hate with solidarity and truth.
For every hateful message, there are thousands of women and allies who use their voice to raise the morale of those who face attacks on networks. Movements like #MeToo or #TimesUp are clear examples of how women not only confront misogyny, but also fight it with strength and unity. Despite attempts to silence them, there are more and more spaces for their stories and their struggles.
Women’s empowerment: more necessary than ever
Fuentes’ hate speech is nothing new. There have always been figures who try to take power away from women, reinforcing stereotypes and outdated narratives. However, what Nick and other misogynists fail to understand is that gender equality and female empowerment are not passing trends; they are a social evolution. Women have not only gained ground in terms of rights, but have demonstrated that their role in all aspects of life is critical.
It is important to remember that for every misogynistic attack, for every attempt to belittle women, the victories continue to grow. Women lead businesses, inspire social movements and are present in politics, defying those “brick ceilings” with unwavering strength. Although female representation in politics still has a long way to go, the presence of women in positions of power demonstrates that this kind of hate only strengthens their resolve.
Responding to hate with unity and education
There is nothing more powerful than a well-informed community. Hate and violence against women in networks is fueled by archaic ideas and lack of education on equality and rights. Promoting gender and human rights education is one of the most powerful tools to combat such attitudes. By training new generations in empathy and respect, we can build a society where equality is a reality.
And we are not just talking about an “ideal future”; this education starts now. By supporting the women in our lives, whether at home, at work or in the community, and by giving visibility to gender issues in the public conversation, we are building a society less tolerant of misogyny. Every conversation counts and every support makes a difference.
Transforming outrage into action
It’s easy to feel outrage when figures like Fuentes celebrate a world where women’s rights are ignored, but the key is to transform that outrage into meaningful action. We can support organizations that fight for women’s rights, participate in social movements that seek justice and equality, and use our platforms to share information that inspires and empowers.
Female resilience goes beyond words. Women today are in science, technology, politics, culture and more; and every achievement by a woman is a victory for all. This empowerment, which bothers misogynists so much, is also a source of hope for future generations.
Final thought: Together, we are unstoppable.
No matter how many attempts at intimidation come, history has shown that women are unstoppable when they unite. Fuentes and others of his caliber may shout slogans, hurl insults, but the strength of women is unbreakable. Today, female resistance is a wave that cannot be stopped. For every word of hate that is spread, voices will be raised to counter it. And so women’s empowerment will continue to advance, stronger, louder, and with more unity than ever before.
