The phrase "nasty woman" was born of a debate insult, but has since taken on new meaning. It became a rallying cry for Hillary Clinton's campaign and for feminists across the country. In the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election, it continues to be an important phrase, an example of the reclaiming of negative words and the ability to take an insult and transform it into a platform.
Madonna recently gave a speech about her own experiences with sexism and name-calling: "I was called a whore and a witch." Madonna commented that it was important for her to speak out about her own experiences in light of what has happened since the 2016 election. The rise of hate crimes since the election has created an America that is more divided and dangerous than ever before. This election has brought many of the most negative aspects of this country out of the shadows and into the light--from racism to sexism, Islamophobia to homophobia, we are being forced to confront the dark truths about the discrimination that still goes on in this country.
The phrase "nasty woman" is more important now than ever. It is a way of acknowledging the work done by Hillary Clinton, whether you like her or not. Hillary Clinton is the closest we have gotten thus far in our country's history to a woman president, and she stands as a shining example of a strong woman. You may disagree with her policies, even dislike her on a personal level, but what she has done for feminism cannot be ignored. That's why "nasty woman" goes beyond Hillary Clinton and beyond the 2016 election. Being a "nasty woman" is something all women should strive to do every day. Being a "nasty woman" means standing up for your rights and the rights of others. It means not being afraid to take action and stand out. It means taking insults from misogynistic men, turning them on their heads and building an empire out of them.
The "nasty woman" rallying cry has become the "nasty woman" movement. From tattoos to Facebook groups, to Twitter trends to speeches, the "nasty woman" movement has sparked a revolution within feminism and is not likely to go away anytime soon. Even if the phrase "nasty woman" eventually fades away, the movement it has sparked won't.
