NeW at Cornell University and NeW at Harvard University hosted Kelsey Bolar, senior policy analyst at the Independent Women’s Forum, for a discussion titled “Conservative Feminism: Combatting the Victimhood Narrative” on April 13, 2021.

During the event, Bolar spoke about the revisionist history of feminism and the importance of motherhood and raising a family. The first half of her talk focused on conservatives reclaiming the feminist narrative that is pushed by most modern day feminists. In doing this, she explored the evolution of feminism, from 1st wave in the early 1900s all the way through 4th wave feminism today, particularly looking at how pro-abortion advocates and the sexual revolution were able to refine and hijack the feminist movement.

Bolar described 2nd wave feminism’s idea of of “commitment free sex” as the “greatest scam of all time for women,” specficially pointing out how it allows men to avoid taking initiative or be faithful. Although the sexual revolution did occur during 2nd wave feminism, the abortion agenda was not a widely agreed on issue by prominent feminist organizations like the National Organization for Women (NOW). This, however, is in stark contrast to claims from some today that a pro-abortion stance is the only way to be an advocate of women’s equality and progress.

The latter part of the event was spent focusing on building a strong family and how motherhood and women are helped by certain policies. For example, Bolar mentioned how remote work and work from home has been very pro-women, allowing mothers to stay home with their children and build families while also being able to work.

Ultimately, Bolar said she hopes to reclaim the history of the female pioneers who came before her by honoring those women through identifying as a conservative feminist and living up to the words and ideas outlined in the Constitution, as well as encouraging other women to do the same.

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