I’m 33 and felt like I had seen tons of progress made in my lifetime. While I knew there was still lots to do I never dreamed I’d see abortion rights taken away or the general vocal culture of misogyny that has taken hold. It has made me wonder: is it the result of a backlash (men feeling threatened, inadequate, less satisfied with their dating options now that women don’t need to lower their standards?) OR is this government just giving voice to the misogyny that has always been there (I.e. an illusion of a cultural shift because these people stayed quiet before).

I know many men who are great and whole heartedly support women, in ways I’m sure most men would not have a couple decades ago. Most of the women I know are empowered and independent in ways most women of previous generations weren’t able to be. However, I can also think of countless times in my life when I’ve been objectified, assaulted etc.

TLDR I’m wondering if I made out the level of progress we’d achieved to be more than it was and if maybe the current climate is simply bringing to light how much misogyny is truly out there and has always been there.