The Future of Our Nation’s in Her Hands”: Socially Constructing Gender in Far-Right Music

• In Event: Whiteness and Crime: The Role of Power in Inequalities

Abstract

Far-right extremism is a growing concern in the United States, with incidents surpassing all other forms of domestic terrorism over the past 30 years. Despite this, the current scholarship on far-right extremism is lagging, particularly in regards to the non-violent activities of these groups like music. Of the research that does exist, few examine these activities through a critical gendered lens despite the rigid gender roles emphasized by far-right ideology. This study explores how far-right music constructs femininity and masculinity. Using lyrics from over 700 songs from 64 geographically diverse far-right bands, the results uncover a stark contrast in gender narratives. In-group women are revered for their biological role in preserving racial purity, while out-group women are demonized as corrupting influences. The portrayal of men centers on strength, toughness, and a profound sense of brotherhood as essential to ensuring the survival of the white race. These findings have significant counterterrorism implications, particularly regarding the role of women. Although not as visible as their male counterparts, in-group women play a crucial role in reinforcing far-right prescribed family structures, cultural values, and community cohesion. Understanding these gendered narratives provides deeper insight into far-right extremism and highlights potential intervention points for counterterrorism efforts.

Authors

• Sandra S. Stone, University of South Florida

• Jessica M. Grosholz, University of South Florida

• Zacharias P. Pieri, University of South Florida