The U.S. feminist movement’s ongoing pursuit of gender equality has experienced significant challenges during President Donald Trump’s second term, highlighted by the rollback of various nondiscrimination initiatives and the removal of prominent women from military positions.
Nonetheless, women from conservative evangelical backgrounds and the Catholic Church have emerged as vociferous participants in political and social discussions, even as their respective faiths historically restrict women from serving as priests or pastors. For many of these women, such barriers are inconsequential.
An illustration of this came in Dallas, where over 6,500 conservative Christian women gathered for a conference on October 11, organized by commentator Allie Beth Stuckey. Her greeting, “Welcome to the fight,” set the tone for the event.
Stuckey cited an influx of messages from Christian women proclaiming their readiness to abandon passive roles in politics and culture, clarifying, “We’re not backing down; we’re doubling down, saying no to the lies of feminism and progressivism and yes to God’s Word.”
Vocal Catholic Sisters on the Frontlines
In Catholic circles, a contrasting fervor is visible among religious sisters who are deeply invested in social justice causes. One recent notable event occurred when Cardinal Timothy Dolan praised activist Charlie Kirk. In response, leaders from the Sisters of Charity of New York publicly distanced themselves from him, asserting: “Mr. Kirk’s words were marked by racist, homophobic, transphobic, and anti-immigrant rhetoric.”
They affirmed their mission to stand with marginalized communities and defend the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, showcasing a vibrant form of intersectional advocacy.
Additionally, sister Norma Pimentel leads migrant-rights efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border, highlighting the human condition of migrants during her work. “When I walked out of there, the officer turned to me and said, ‘Thank you, sister, for helping us realize they’re human beings,’” she recounted.
Natalia Imperatori-Lee, a theology professor, praised the activism of Pimentel and the nuns, declaring their efforts as vital examples of women’s presence in public discourse.
Conservatives and Church Roles
The Southern Baptist Convention, the largest evangelical denomination in the U.S., also promotes traditional gender roles which restrict women from pastoral positions, complicating their involvement in leadership. Susie Hawkins, a Bible teacher, explained that the belief system allows women to contribute within defined boundaries, emphasizing mutual respect and support between husbands and wives.
In the face of traditionalism, women like Erika Kirk remain visible figures, embodying the joy of Christian womanhood while navigating their roles in a patriarchal framework.
Stuckey, who openly discusses these dynamics, reinforces her stance that women should hold steadfast beliefs. “Women are also called to raise a voice and to be a bastion and refuge of clarity and courage,” she asserted.
Continued Advocacy for Women’s Ordination
Within Catholicism, persistent restrictions remain around women’s ordination. As the new Pope Leo XIV begins his tenure, he has expressed no immediate intent to change policies regulating women’s roles in leadership. Nonetheless, women hold significant administrative positions across various Catholic organizations.
The Women’s Ordination Conference, gearing up for its 50th anniversary, continues to advocate for women’s equal participation and intends to amplify its message amidst growing anti-women sentiments worldwide. Executive director Kate McElwee views this moment as one of resilience, noting an increase in courageous activism among women fighting for their rightful recognition.
As the landscape of women’s rights remains stressful and contentious, these women from both conservative and Catholic backgrounds exemplify the complexity and dynamism of faith, gender, and social justice in America today.
