What's going on........................................................
In a troubling scene in Belfast, a child is seen shouting racist slurs while walking hand-in-hand with a woman to an anti-immigration protest.
The girl repeatedly shouts "P***s out,", "P***s out," and is cheered on by nearby protesters. This shocking moment, captured on film, shows a woman confronting the adult accompanying the child, accusing her of teaching racism. Unfazed, the adult continues walking. The confrontation escalates as another woman with a pram joins the group, leading to a tense exchange with a group of male protestors. The disturbing footage raises the question: why would a mother encourage her child to participate in such hateful activities?
Perhaps the participation of women in the recent Far-Right-inspired riots can be seen as a reflection of deeper societal issues, driven by a mix of socio-political factors. Imagine women feeling pushed to the edges of their communities, grappling with rapid societal changes that leave them feeling marginalised and insecure. Looking to capitalise, the far-right seizes upon these raw emotions, positioning itself as a staunch defender of traditional British family values against perceived threats, particularly from Islam. For many women, supporting the far-right might offer more than just a political stance; it provides a sense of community and solidarity with others who share their anxieties and fears. In a world where people often feel their voices and concerns are overlooked or dismissed, this newfound sense of belonging can be a powerful draw.
Many women who are drawn to far-right groups believe that their cultural identity is under siege, eroded by immigration and multicultural policies. The Far-Rights rhetoric about safeguarding British heritage and values may strike a deep chord within them. Picture these women, their hearts filled with a fierce desire to protect what they see as their cultural birthright, taking to the streets to protest and assert their identity. This perceived cultural and identity crisis is a potent force, driving their involvement in far-right activities as they resist changes they deem threatening to their way of life.
It's fair to say that many of us have felt economic pressures, such as job insecurity, financial stress, and a perceived lack of opportunities, and history shows us that in periods of austerity, racism always becomes more prevalent.
Extremist ideologies become more attractive when individuals face economic hardships, they may seek out groups that provide simple explanations and solutions for their problems, potentially ignore the true economic enemy and overall class issues deep routed in the UK. Today the Far-Right often blames minority groups for broader societal issues, offering up their chosen minorities as scapegoats for the current economic frustrations. Women who often bear the brunt of financial pressures, as mothers and matriarchs of their homes, might find the Far-Right’s message appealing as it promises to address their grievances. This coupled with the rise of social media and online platforms has facilitated the recruitment and mobilisation of supporters for extremist groups. Women, like men, can be drawn into these movements through online interactions, where they find a sense of belonging and purpose. These platforms also allow for the spread of extremist ideologies and the normalisation of hate speech, making it easier for women to become involved.
Involvement in far-right movements can offer women a powerful avenue to break free from the confines of traditional gender roles. Picture this: women, fierce and determined, standing shoulder to shoulder with men in protests and demonstrations, their voices rising in unison to claim their rightful place in a predominantly male-dominated arena. This act of defiance can be profoundly empowering, imbuing them with a sense of agency and significance in a world where they believe they are standing up for their nation, community, and loved ones.
Family ties and social circles often play a crucial role in drawing women into extremist activities. Imagine the intimate or persuasive conversations, and persistent encouragement from male partners, family members, or friends who share their beliefs. This creates a tightly-knit environment where collective fears and common convictions strengthen their resolve and commitment to the movement. Threatening and abusive relationships are not uncommon within the ERW (Extreme Right-Wing) world and cohesive control and be the backbone of any extremist persuader.
The allure of involvement in the ERW is a tangled web of emotions and mitigating circumstances.
Is the feeling of being marginalised, the relentless economic pressures, the gnawing cultural anxieties, and above all, the burning desire for empowerment. Or does it boil down to a simple lack of options for women who feel lost, unheard, scared, and exhausted by their lives? These factors intertwine with the powerful influences of family and communities, and the pervasive reach of social media, creating a complex tapestry of motivations that draw women into these activities. Understanding these motivations is not just crucial; it is imperative if we are to address the root causes of extremism and devise effective strategies to counteract it.
The scene in Belfast is more than just a backdrop; it is a stark, visceral reminder of the deep-seated issues driving individuals, including women, towards extremist ideologies. It is a call to action, urging us to delve deeper into these underlying factors to prevent the spread of hate. Only by addressing these core issues can we hope to build a more inclusive and tolerant society for future generations. The stakes are high, and the need for understanding and intervention has never been more pressing.
Michelle
Exit Hate Trust
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