Introducing the Red Tent: A Discursive and Critically Hopeful Exploration of Women’s Circles in a Neoliberal Postfeminist Context

Abstract

Red Tents (RTs) are women’s circles that have increased in popularity in recent years, but they are an under-researched movement. This article explores the way in which RTs are presented online by those involved. Setting these groups in a postfeminist context, and building on the work of Longman, I explore the place of RTs in relation to neoliberal discourses of individualism and autonomy. Via an analysis of the RTs online presence, I argue that the RT presents as a place of acceptance (of self and others) where negative emotions can be aired and bonds between women are formed. While acknowledging several caveats to accepting this presentation at face value – not least the potential perpetuation of hegemonic power relations, systemic inequalities and privilege, particularly regarding biological essentialism and whiteness – I also assert that the full picture is more nuanced. Drawing on a feminist position of possibility, ultimately I argue that RTs appear to offer a refuge of resistance from neoliberalism.