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From Resistance to Reflection

By The New York Times

In this episode of The Daily, the discussion centers on the Women's March movement that emerged in response to Donald Trump's 2016 presidential election victory. Vanessa Wruble, a key organizer, shares how women mobilized through social media to protest perceived threats to their rights, galvanizing nationwide marches and inspiring more women to enter politics.

The episode explores the perceived successes and shortcomings of the Women's March over time. While some activists believe the movement impeded harmful policies and increased women's representation, others, including Wruble, ponder its true historical impact. As the movement's initial fervor fades, activists grapple with disillusionment and the need to reassess strategies for meaningful change.

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From Resistance to Reflection

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From Resistance to Reflection

1-Page Summary

The emergence and growth of the Women's March movement

In response to Donald Trump's 2016 election victory, women across the nation felt outraged, leading to the spontaneous emergence of the Women's March movement, according to Vanessa Wruble.

The Women's March arose organically as women mobilized through social media, driven by Wruble and other veterans who felt their rights were under threat. Their swift efforts drew a resounding response, galvanizing millions to march in solidarity nationwide.

The Women's March catalyzed a broader "Resistance" movement and inspired a new wave of women to seek political office, according to Wruble.

The impact and perceived successes/failures of the Women's March movement

While some activists believe the Women's March successfully impeded harmful policies and boosted women's representation in politics, others, including Wruble, question its true impact on history's trajectory.

There is division over whether the marches achieved meaningful change or simply slowed the momentum of Trump's presidency, with an unidentified speaker suggesting the movement may have fallen short of its intended impact since Trump was initially elected.

There's a growing sense that repeating the Women's March may not be effective, indicating disenchantment with certain activist tactics and a need to reassess strategies.

The activists' emotional responses and changing attitudes over time

Wruble describes the 2016 election triggering visceral outrage that compelled activists to resist Trump through organizing the Women's March.
Harris's 2020 election loss reignited outrage and hopelessness for many, including Wruble, who now grapples with betrayal over the rejection of a qualified woman of color.
Over time, some activists have become disillusioned and emotionally drained, questioning the impact of protests as voiced by an unidentified speaker who notes setbacks despite ongoing activism.

Wruble acknowledges moving from rage-fueled action to exhaustion, suggesting the need to reflect on effective strategies going forward as the movement's initial vigor may not be recreated.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The Women's March may have been perceived as not fully inclusive or representative of all women's interests, particularly those of conservative or pro-life women.
  • The effectiveness of the Women's March in impeding harmful policies could be debated, as policy change often requires sustained legislative action beyond public demonstrations.
  • The claim that the Women's March inspired a new wave of women to seek political office might be too simplistic, as women's increased political engagement could also be attributed to a variety of other factors, including broader societal shifts and other advocacy groups' efforts.
  • The argument that repeating the Women's March may not be effective could be countered by the idea that public demonstrations can have cumulative effects on public awareness and policy over time, even if immediate changes are not evident.
  • The disillusionment and emotional drain experienced by activists could be seen as a natural evolution of any movement, rather than a specific failure of the Women's March or its tactics.
  • The notion of outrage and hopelessness following election losses could be challenged by the perspective that electoral politics are cyclical, and setbacks can serve as catalysts for future mobilization and strategy refinement.
  • The feeling of betrayal over the rejection of a qualified woman of color, such as Harris, could be met with the argument that electoral decisions are complex and influenced by a multitude of factors beyond qualifications and identity.
  • The need to reflect on effective strategies going forward could be seen as an inherent part of any social movement's lifecycle, rather than a unique consequence of the Women's March's approach.

Actionables

  • You can channel your reactions to political events into creative expression by starting a blog, vlog, or art project that captures your feelings and perspectives, providing an outlet for your emotions and potentially resonating with others who feel similarly.
    • Writing, video blogging, or creating art allows you to process your thoughts and feelings constructively. For example, if you're feeling outraged or hopeful, you could paint a series of works that reflect these emotions or write blog posts that explore the reasons behind your reactions, inviting conversation and reflection from your audience.
  • You can deepen your understanding of political activism by reading books or attending local lectures on the history and impact of social movements, which will give you a broader context for current events and may inspire new ways of participating.
    • Educating yourself about past movements can provide insights into successful strategies and common challenges. For instance, reading about the civil rights movement might reveal tactics that effectively brought about change, which you could then adapt to current issues you care about.
  • You can foster resilience in activism by starting a support group with like-minded individuals where you can share experiences, offer encouragement, and brainstorm sustainable ways to stay engaged without burning out.
    • Activism can be emotionally taxing, so having a support network can help maintain your well-being. This could be as simple as a monthly meet-up at a local coffee shop where you discuss personal experiences with activism, share self-care tips, and motivate each other to keep going despite setbacks.

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From Resistance to Reflection

The emergence and growth of the Women's March movement

In response to Donald Trump’s 2016 election victory, women across the nation felt outraged, leading to the spontaneous emergence of the Women's March movement.

The Women's March arose spontaneously in response to Donald Trump's 2016 election victory, with women across the country feeling outraged and motivated to organize and protest.

Vanessa Wruble described the win of Donald Trump as akin to experiencing a death, citing shock at the election of someone accused of sexual misconduct to the presidency and attributing his victory to misogyny. The next day, her outrage turned into motivation as she felt a pressing need to take action. This was the sentiment that gave birth to the Women's March organization, largely mobilized by women converging on a single Facebook page.

T. Marie Hannibal, a retired Marine Corps gunnery sergeant with two decades under her belt, joined the burgeoning movement as she felt her rights, and the rights of other women like her, were under threat. As a Black woman and a veteran who had an abortion at 17, Vanessa Wruble's personal history fueled her sense of urgency to protect women's rights, particularly abortion access, which she feared would be denied under Trump’s administration.

Wruble began reaching out for support, leading to a viral spread of the call to protest and organize on Facebook, which catalyzed the formation of Women's March movements across various states such as Pennsylvania and South Carolina.

Women, including military veterans, quickly mobilized through social media to coordinate and plan the historic Women's March, which drew millions of participants to rallies across the United States.

The mobilization process was swift and powerful, driven by Wruble and other women veterans, who felt their rights and sacrifices were not respected within their own country. Their efforts to organize were met with a resounding response, leading to the historic Women's March that saw millions ...

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The emergence and growth of the Women's March movement

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The Women's March may not have been entirely spontaneous, as it required significant organization and coordination, which suggests some level of premeditation or existing activist infrastructure.
  • The attribution of Donald Trump's victory solely to misogyny may oversimplify the complex reasons behind his electoral success, which could include economic anxiety, political polarization, and dissatisfaction with the political establishment.
  • While the Women's March was a significant mobilization, it may not have been representative of all women, as some women supported Donald Trump and may have felt alienated by the movement's messaging and goals.
  • The effectiveness of the Women's March in terms of concrete policy changes or political influence could be questioned, as large-scale protests do not always translate into legislative action or shifts in public policy.
  • The assertion that the Women's March galvanized a broader "Resistance" movement might overlook other contributing factors or parallel movements that were also influential in mobilizing opposition to the Trump administration.
  • The claim that the Women's March inspired a surge of women to run for political office could be challenged by noting that women's increased political participation has been a trend over time and may not be directly attributable to the march itself.
  • The idea that the Women's March continued to inspire ongoing political action might be cou ...

Actionables

  • You can channel your reactions to political events into creative expression by writing poetry, songs, or creating artwork that captures your feelings and perspectives, which can be shared on personal blogs or social media to inspire others and foster a sense of community.
    • Expressing your thoughts and emotions through art can be a powerful way to process events and connect with like-minded individuals. For example, if you're moved by issues of women's rights, you might paint a series that highlights influential women or write a song about the importance of equality.
  • Start a personal challenge to read a book a month on social or political activism to better understand the historical context and strategies of movements, which can inform your own views and actions.
    • Educating yourself through literature can provide a deeper insight into the mechanics of social change. For instance, after learning about the Women's March, you might read "When We Fight, We Win!" by Greg Jobin-Leeds and AgitArte to see how different movements have approached activism.
  • Engage in micro-volunteering online ...

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In a world where social upheavals are both history and headline news, understanding what drives masses of people toward radical change—or radical belief—is more relevant than ever. In The True Believer, self-educated philosopher Eric Hoffer examines the psychological foundation of political, social, and religious movements and uncovers why they captivate those feeling alienated or discontented. Through observations and thorough analysis, he reveals the shared characteristics across different movements and outlines the conditions for their rise and fall.

This book not only offers a lens through which to view historical events but will also equip you with a deeper understanding relevant to today's rapidly changing global landscape. In this guide, we’ll elaborate on the psychology behind Hoffer’s analysis and supplement his discussion with historical examples that illustrate his conclusions. We’ll also provide insight on how new technology has impacted the rise and fall of mass movements.

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In Caste, Isabel Wilkerson argues that the racial tensions in the United States are better explained through the lens of caste, not race—a 400-year-old hierarchy placing white people at the top and Black people at the bottom. Wilkerson examines the different caste systems around the world and how they damage the lives of everyone involved, even those at the top. She believes that to understand how to move forward, we must examine the past and the racial structures that keep progress as a nation at bay.

In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of Wilkerson’s caste theory, the eight tenets of a caste system, how the caste system affects the lives of people in the upper and lower castes, and how we can move away from caste and create a more equitable society. We’ll also compare Wilkerson’s ideas to those of other books on the subject of race, such as Michelle Alexander’s The New Jim Crow.

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Get access to the context and additional materials

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From Resistance to Reflection

The impact and perceived successes/failures of the Women's March movement

The Women's March movement stands as a powerful symbol for many activists, but there is debate about whether it managed to instigate meaningful change or simply dampened the momentum of the Trump presidency.

A Divided Perspective on Impact

Activists remain divided over the impact and effectiveness of the Women's March and subsequent protests.

Different Interpretations of Success

Some activists firmly believe that the Women's March was successful in impeding damaging policies and raising the profile of critical issues. This perspective notes the role of the movement in galvanizing women to run for office, resulting in a historic number of wins in the 2018 midterm elections. Furthermore, activists felt a sense of triumph when Trump lost the election to Joe Biden in 2020, interpreting it as a reversal of the previous political direction.

Debates Over Effectiveness

Conversely, others, including Vanessa Wruble, are less certain about the marches' historical significance. Wruble acknowledges that while there may have been some slow-down to the Trump agenda, it’s uncertain whether the protests truly altered the course of history. An unidentified speaker amplifies this skepticism by suggesting that because "the people" initially voted for Trump, the Women's March might not have had the s ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

The impact and perceived successes/failures of the Women's March movement

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The Women's March may have raised awareness, but it's difficult to measure how much it directly influenced policy changes or political outcomes.
  • The historic number of women elected in the 2018 midterm elections cannot be solely attributed to the Women's March; numerous factors, including broader political shifts and other activism efforts, likely played a role.
  • The defeat of Trump in the 2020 election may not be a direct result of the Women's March, as presidential elections are influenced by a complex interplay of national issues, candidate appeal, and campaign strategies.
  • The argument that the Women's March did not have a substantial impact because "the people" initially voted for Trump overlooks the fact that public opinion can change over time and that activism can be a part of that change.
  • The effectiveness of any protest, including the Women's March, often cannot be immediately seen and may contribute to gradual social and political shifts that are only recognizable in the long term.
  • The suggestion that certain forms of activism may no longer be ...

Actionables

  • You can start a personal journal to track social and political changes, noting your involvement and the outcomes you observe. By documenting your experiences with activism and the political landscape, you create a personal history that can provide insight into the effectiveness of various movements and your role within them. For example, after participating in a march or campaign, write down what you felt worked well, what didn't, and any noticeable shifts in public opinion or policy.
  • Engage in conversations with people who hold different views to understand the broader impact of social movements. This can be as simple as having a coffee with a friend or family member who might not share your perspective. Discuss the Women's March or other activism efforts, and listen to their observations about its influence. This can help you gauge the movement's reach and effectiveness beyond your immediate circle.
  • Volunteer for a local political campaign or com ...

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In Confidence Man, New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman explores the remarkable public life and career of real estate developer, reality TV star, and former President of the United States Donald Trump.

Haberman's book explores the people, experiences, and environments that shaped the singular personality that would define his presidency, focusing on his prowess as a consummate showman and salesman and his deep-seated desires for fame, attention, dominance, power, and leverage over others.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

  • Trump’s career as a real estate developer and public symbol of capitalist success
  • His second act as a right-wing firebrand and promoter of conspiracy theories
  • His victory in the 2016 presidential election
  • His presidency and attempts to overturn his defeat in the 2020 presidential election

Throughout this guide, we’ll supplement Haberman’s account with commentary from outside sources to both support her critical portrayal of Trump’s life and career, as well as to bring in perspectives that offer a more favorable view of the 45th president.

Caste
Isabel Wilkerson

In Caste, Isabel Wilkerson argues that the racial tensions in the United States are better explained through the lens of caste, not race—a 400-year-old hierarchy placing white people at the top and Black people at the bottom. Wilkerson examines the different caste systems around the world and how they damage the lives of everyone involved, even those at the top. She believes that to understand how to move forward, we must examine the past and the racial structures that keep progress as a nation at bay.

In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of Wilkerson’s caste theory, the eight tenets of a caste system, how the caste system affects the lives of people in the upper and lower castes, and how we can move away from caste and create a more equitable society. We’ll also compare Wilkerson’s ideas to those of other books on the subject of race, such as Michelle Alexander’s The New Jim Crow.

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
From Resistance to Reflection

The activists' emotional responses and changing attitudes over time

The 2016 election of Trump prompted a visceral, emotional response from Women's March organizers, who felt a profound sense of rage, betrayal, and determination to resist.

When Trump was elected in 2016, it prompted a visceral, emotional response from Women's March organizers. Vanessa Wruble described feeling as though they were in mourning, a sense akin to death among her peers. This intense reaction led to a crossroads of either giving up or taking action. Fired up by anger and a compelling need to make a change, they chose the latter. Organizing and participating in the Women's March became a channel for their profound rage and an urgent need to stand against the perceived threats of Trump's presidency.

The 2020 election loss by Kamala Harris reignited that sense of outrage and hopelessness for many activists, who struggled to understand how the country could reject a qualified, historic candidate.

Kamala Harris's rise as the Democratic nominee for president briefly reignited hope among activists. However, her loss in the 2020 election plunged them back into darkness and defeat, baffled at how the country could reject such a qualified candidate. This loss was especially painful for Black women, as highlighted by Vanessa Wruble’s comments. She initially felt "mad as hell" in 2016 but now contends with a sense of betrayal and disappointment, recognizing that despite qualifications and societal progress, women, and in particular women of color, are still not sufficiently valued.

Over time, some activists have become disillusioned, feeling worn down and questioning whether protest and activism are the right paths forward given the seeming indifference of the electorate.

Activists like Vanessa Wruble have moved from the rage-fueled actions of 2016 to a current state of exhaustion and disillusionment, questioning the effectiveness of their activism. There has been a shift from the initial fire and action triggered by Trump's election to feelings of defeat in the following years. There's a consensu ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

The activists' emotional responses and changing attitudes over time

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The emotional response to Trump's election, while profound for some, may not have been universal, and other activists might have been motivated by strategic or pragmatic concerns rather than just emotional ones.
  • The interpretation of Kamala Harris's election loss as a rejection of a qualified candidate could be oversimplified, as electoral outcomes are influenced by a complex set of factors beyond a candidate's qualifications.
  • The disillusionment felt by some activists does not necessarily reflect the sentiments of the entire activist community, as others may feel invigorated or remain steadfast in their commitment to activism.
  • The effectiveness of activism is difficult to measure, and while some may question its impact, others might argue that activism has brought about significant social and political changes, even if progress is slow.
  • The seeming indifference of the electorate could be a misinterpretation, as voter decisions are influenced by a wide array of issues, and what appears as indifference might be a difference in priorities or information.
  • The setbacks mentioned, such as the confirmation of Kavanaugh and the reversal of Roe vs. Wade, could be seen not as failures of protest but as part of the ongoing struggle in a democratic society where different viewpoints vie for influence ...

Actionables

  • You can channel your emotions into creative expression by starting a personal art project that reflects your feelings about social and political issues. This could be as simple as a daily sketch or poem that captures your mood or a more complex piece like a painting or story. The act of creating something tangible can be therapeutic and may even inspire others if you choose to share it online or with friends.
  • Consider starting a reflective journal where you document your thoughts and feelings about activism and current events. This practice can help you process emotions, identify patterns in your thinking, and possibly uncover new ways to contribute to causes you care about. Over time, you might find clarity on how to engage in activism in a way that feels sustainable and impactful for you.
  • Engage in small-scale, personal ...

Related Shortform Content

Caste
Isabel Wilkerson

In Caste, Isabel Wilkerson argues that the racial tensions in the United States are better explained through the lens of caste, not race—a 400-year-old hierarchy placing white people at the top and Black people at the bottom. Wilkerson examines the different caste systems around the world and how they damage the lives of everyone involved, even those at the top. She believes that to understand how to move forward, we must examine the past and the racial structures that keep progress as a nation at bay.

In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of Wilkerson’s caste theory, the eight tenets of a caste system, how the caste system affects the lives of people in the upper and lower castes, and how we can move away from caste and create a more equitable society. We’ll also compare Wilkerson’s ideas to those of other books on the subject of race, such as Michelle Alexander’s The New Jim Crow.

Strangers In Their Own Land
Arlie Russell Hochschild

In Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right, sociologist Arlie Hochschild seeks to understand the social, cultural, and emotional forces driving right-wing politics, in an effort to move past the partisan divide and approach American politics from a position of empathy for those on the right. By breaking down this empathy wall, we can come to truly inhabit the emotional world of the right, giving us insight into why these voters believe what they believe—and why those beliefs might make sense given these voters’ experiences.

Confidence Man
Maggie Haberman

In Confidence Man, New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman explores the remarkable public life and career of real estate developer, reality TV star, and former President of the United States Donald Trump.

Haberman's book explores the people, experiences, and environments that shaped the singular personality that would define his presidency, focusing on his prowess as a consummate showman and salesman and his deep-seated desires for fame, attention, dominance, power, and leverage over others.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

  • Trump’s career as a real estate developer and public symbol of capitalist success
  • His second act as a right-wing firebrand and promoter of conspiracy theories
  • His victory in the 2016 presidential election
  • His presidency and attempts to overturn his defeat in the 2020 presidential election

Throughout this guide, we’ll supplement Haberman’s account with commentary from outside sources to both support her critical portrayal of Trump’s life and career, as well as to bring in perspectives that offer a more favorable view of the 45th president.

Get access to the context and additional materials

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Get access for free

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