Impact

The impact of the backlash feminist activists face is multi-layered and wide-ranging, taking a toll on individuals, families and loved ones, organizations, communities, and movements. 

 

The backlash that feminist activists face has an effect—intentionally so—on their mental, emotional, economic, and professional well-being, in addition to their physical safety. As one activist shared: “They know what they are doing….They are masters in psychological warfare.”

 

Black, Indigenous, disabled, LGBTQIA+, and other activists whose identities and experiences—including migration and living under occupation or amidst war—place them at greater risk of backlash are also more likely to be denied access to resources and protections that could help them mitigate and heal from reprisals.

Credit: Tracy Chahwan

I am scared of the militarization against land protectors that is happening globally—of digital identification, facial recognition, and the loss of privacy. I am also scared of our courage being thwarted. How do we protect what is sacred without putting our lives on the line?

Vera, artist and environmental activist

Credit: Aghyad Najjar
Credit: Aghyad Najjar
Credit: Aghyad Najjar

Credit: Aghyad Najjar

How Are Activists Affected by Intimidation and Threats?

Activists report living in fear of detention, surveillance, and physical harm, and being forced to relocate to third countries and to engage in self-censorship in person and online.

Activists share that the stress and trauma caused by the backlash they face takes an enormous toll on their physical, emotional, and mental health—as well as that of their families, loved ones, and colleagues.

Activists report facing legal battles and smear campaigns that cost them financially and professionally.

Activists report fearing for the safety of their families, communities, and other activists—and their families and communities fearing for theirs. Indeed, perpetrators target activists’ loved ones and networks intentionally in an attempt to silence activists and instill fear in or divide families, communities, and movements. Perpetrators of backlash often target feminist activists’ reputation and honor to silence and alienate them from their families and communities—or target activists’ loved ones and support networks directly as a way of coercing them to stop their activism.

Not even behind two doors would I feel secure. I have seen how they deal with these locks.

Nina, activist and head of humanitarian NGO

Credit: Cottonbro Studio
Credit: Cottonbro Studio
Credit: Cottonbro Studio

Credit: Cottonbro Studio