Episode 68: Rage Phase

In 'Episode 68: Rage Phase' of the 'Call Your Girlfriend' podcast, co-hosts Ann Friedman and Aminatou Sow navigate the emotional aftermath of the 2016 presidential election. They begin by discussing self-care strategies that they've adopted to cope with their disappointment and grief, including double cleansing, deep conditioning hair, and the importance of eating and hydration. The conversation quickly shifts to the core of their sadness and rage: the election results, which saw a 'fascistic sentient Cheeto' triumph over an accomplished, motivated woman who wanted to make the world a better place. They express their shock and devastation over Hillary Clinton's loss, despite winning the popular vote, and the Republican Party's gains across the board, which they attribute to voter suppression and other systemic issues.

The hosts delve into the emotional impact of the election, discussing the quantifiable hatred towards women that the results suggest and the historical pattern of backlash following periods of progress, drawing parallels to the Reconstruction era. They examine the demographic reasons behind the election outcome, especially the role of white women voters, and the internalized misogyny that may have influenced their votes. They also discuss their frustration with people who expressed concern over the election but did not take tangible action to influence the outcome, highlighting the need for active participation beyond social media engagement.

The episode also touches on the victories of women of color in the Senate and other political offices, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the despair. They discuss the importance of these 'pipeline victories' for the future and the need for continued support for these candidates. They conclude with a call to action, urging listeners to support organizations that align with their values, like the ACLU and Planned Parenthood, and to engage in community and accountability to effect change.