By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The article expresses concern about the potential erosion of women’s suffrage, drawing parallels to the rise of Christian nationalism in the United States and its potential influence in the UK. It highlights the increasing visibility of those questioning the 19th Amendment, including figures within the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC) who advocate for a “household vote.” This shift is seen as part of a larger movement, supported by powerful individuals and organizations, to subtly alter the cultural landscape and make previously unthinkable ideas, like limiting women’s voting rights, seem more acceptable. The author warns that these tactics are already present in the UK, exemplified by connections between conservative groups and political figures, and urges vigilance in defending democratic principles.
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The US right has a grand plan to remove the vote from women.
It’s unsettling, isn’t it? The whispers, the undercurrents, the seemingly fringe ideas that suddenly start to gain traction. The core fear revolves around the idea that the right, or at least a significant faction within it, is actively working to disenfranchise women voters. This isn’t a new concern, but the urgency feels heightened, and it’s fueled by actions, not just words. The signs are there for those who choose to see them.
One of the foundational arguments often used is that women are “too emotional” to make sound political decisions. This, of course, is a tired and sexist trope. It’s an attempt to delegitimize women’s voices and decisions. This argument is not alone. There are more concerning proposals too, like “voting by household” where one person, presumably the male head, votes for the whole family. Another option includes raising the voting age, with limited exceptions for certain demographics.
The attacks on women’s rights aren’t always overt. They can be insidious, like policies that might make it difficult for married women to vote if their current last name doesn’t match their birth certificate without specific documentation. These small actions compound, creating an environment where women’s voices are diminished. This can come in the form of voter suppression tactics, which disproportionately affect women.
It’s hard not to connect this with the broader political landscape, particularly the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This decision, and the subsequent attempts to restrict abortion access, have sent a clear message: the rights of women are up for debate. This is why some feel the current environment is reminiscent of Margaret Atwood’s *The Handmaid’s Tale*, a chilling reminder of how easily freedoms can erode.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that the movement is not monolithic. There’s a disturbing trend of women voting for candidates and policies that appear to undermine their own rights. This internal conflict is a significant obstacle. There are also those who voted and supported the actions that are being taken, which only helps the cause.
The reality of these attempts is becoming more clear. The idea that this is a conspiracy theory is not one of the more realistic notions. With the current power structures in place, there is a clear understanding of the risks. With the current government and Supreme Court, there is the understanding that women’s ability to vote in the near future is at risk.
It’s easy to get discouraged. The path forward is murky, and the forces arrayed against women’s suffrage seem powerful. But the answer is not to give in to despair. We need to be vigilant, aware of the strategies being employed, and vocal in our opposition. The future of democracy depends on it.