New Books Network Sophie Lewis, "Enemy Feminisms: Terfs, Policewomen, and Girlbosses Against Liberation" (Haymarket Books, 2025)
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Apr 19, 2025 Sophie Lewis, an Anglo-German writer and feminist theorist, dives into the provocative world of 'enemy feminisms' in her latest work. She critiques historical and contemporary feminisms that align with oppressive ideologies, such as TERFism and anti-abortion sentiments. The discussion emphasizes the need for antifascist, transfeminist strategies to navigate challenges like transphobia and reproductive justice. Lewis urges a deeper understanding of feminism's complex legacy, showcasing its potential to either liberate or perpetuate violence depending on its adherence to solidarity and social justice.
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Defining Enemy Feminisms
- Feminism is best defined as a woman-led vindication of women against patriarchy.
- This broad definition includes reactionary feminisms historically aligned with fascism and racism.
Slavery Metaphor in Early Feminism
- Early feminists like Mary Wollstonecraft used slavery metaphors to highlight women's oppression.
- This framing ignored colonial realities and prompted zero-sum competition with antiracist abolitionists.
Pseudo-Abolitionism in Feminism
- Abolitionism historically often meant criminalizing slavery, not challenging racial hierarchy.
- Feminism appropriated abolitionist energy to center white women's struggles while ignoring anti-racist liberation.