Rise of the 'Manosphere': Escalating Hostility and Abuse Towards Women Post-Election

In the wake of the recent presidential election, a troubling phrase has emerged as a battle cry among right-wing influencers—“Your body, my choice.” Once associated with abortion rights, this slogan has been reclaimed in a manner that raises alarm among many women, reflecting an uptick in misogynistic sentiment as some men feel emboldened by the election results.

Sadie Perez, a 19-year-old political science student in Wisconsin, has begun carrying pepper spray after hearing the phrase echoed around her college campus. This reaction is part of a broader fear stemming from a perceived threat to women’s rights. “Women want and deserve to feel safe,” Perez remarked, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll of this rhetoric.

Isabelle Frances-Wright, director at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, noted a surge in violent misogyny online, particularly following the election. “Progressive women have been shocked by how quickly and aggressively this rhetoric has gained traction,” she observed, underscoring the rapid normalization of such language.

The phrase’s origin is linked to Nick Fuentes, a far-right internet figure, whose social media post garnered 35 million views in just 24 hours. His message spread quickly, influencing interactions both online and offline. Reports indicate that boys chant the slogan in schools, while women hear it directed at them on college campuses.

In response, several school districts across Wisconsin and Minnesota have alerted parents to the language’s prevalence. Amazon even removed T-shirts featuring the phrase amid backlash. Reports suggest that men are using the slogan to respond dismissively to women’s social media posts, with comments making women feel “disgusted and infringed upon,” as Perez described.

The trend towards misogynistic language has exacerbated since the election, with far-right online communities celebrating and propagating violent ideologies. The rise in threats against women and calls for a return to traditional gender roles reflect a growing discontent among some men who perceive a loss of societal standing.

Historical patterns show that violent rhetoric has often preceded real-world violence, a concern amplified by online interactions that can quickly escalate. The Global Project Against Hate and Extremism has documented numerous misogynistic trends gaining traction post-election across various platforms, including 4chan.

Political experts assert that Trump’s victory adds a layer of validation for some disenchanted young men who feel threatened by shifting gender dynamics. As women gain prominence on college campuses and professional arenas, attempts are being made by some to recapture traditional gender roles, often expressing resentment towards women’s rights movements.

Amid the uncertainty and fear, Perez and her peers are finding strength in each other. They are committed to standing together against this toxic rhetoric, emphasizing kindness and solidarity. “I want to encourage my friends and the women in my life to use their voices to call out this rhetoric and to not let fear take over,” she stated. Such resilience offers a beacon of hope, amidst the growing tide of hostility.