149: Radical Activism, Women’s Rights, and the Legacy of Josephine Butler

In the 19th century, Josephine Butler defied every expectation of what a woman should be. A privileged, refined Victorian lady, she became a fearless advocate for women on the margins—challenging sexual double standards, fighting the legal system that punished women while protecting men, and leading a movement that changed British law and history.   Today, historian Sarah C. Williams, author of When Courage Calls: Josephine Butler and the Radical Pursuit of Justice for Women, joins us to unpack Butler’s extraordinary life and the paradoxes that made her so compelling. What does her story have to teach us about faith, justice, activism, and the courage to challenge oppressive systems? And how does her legacy speak to us today, in a world where women’s bodies are once again being politicized and controlled?   Whether you’re deconstructing purity culture, rethinking your faith, or just looking for a story of radical love in action—this episode is for you.    Links & Resources: When Courage Calls by Sarah C. Williams (Australia, USA)  Subscribe & share this episode with someone who needs to hear it! Book Club