The article critiques the profile of Brittany Hugoboom, a figure representing white Christian nationalism, and examines how this movement uses imagery of femininity to promote its agenda. It contrasts Brittany’s portrayal—donning a milkmaid dress—as a symbol of “empowerment” with the oppression associated with women in other theocratic systems, such as those in Iran or Afghanistan, who are visibly oppressed by dress codes like hijabs.
Mona Eltahawy argues that the mainstream media, particularly the New York Times, fails to recognize the dangers of white Christian nationalist rhetoric, illustrating this with the circular reasoning that if a woman looks privileged, she cannot be oppressed. The article emphasizes the role of white women in perpetuating these narratives, likening their conservative lifestyle choices to a form of propaganda aimed at indoctrinating young women.
Eltahawy calls for a revitalization of feminism that addresses these issues with a critical lens, urging for a movement that is both resilient and confrontational against patriarchal structures. Ultimately, she advocates for a more dangerous and powerful feminist response to combat the rise of theocracy and white supremacy in the U.S.
