UPDATE: A powerful new book, The Conspiracists: Women, Extremism, and the Lure of Belonging, by author and ethnographer Noelle Cook, is set to release on January 6, 2025, marking the fifth anniversary of the historic Capitol riot. The book sheds light on the alarming rise of women involved in extremist movements, catalyzed by the rhetoric of former President Donald Trump and the fallout from the 2020 presidential election.
On that fateful day in 2021, Cook arrived in Washington, D.C., not intending to join the chaos but to document the “Stop the Steal” rally. What she witnessed was shocking: a violent mob breaching the Capitol, with emergency responders carrying away the body of Ashli Babbitt, who was killed as she attempted to enter the Speaker’s Lobby. Cook’s experience ignited a research project that would unravel the complex narratives of those women who stormed the Capitol.
Over the past five years, Cook tracked the first 100 women arrested for their roles in the attack, including notable figures like Yvonne St. Cyr and Tammy Butry. St. Cyr led rioters through the Capitol’s tunnels, while Butry documented the chaos with selfies, draped in a Trump flag. Their actions are emblematic of a troubling trend: middle-aged women increasingly drawn into conspiracy-driven communities during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cook discovered that many of these women, like St. Cyr and Butry, found solace and community in online spaces, fostering beliefs rooted in what she terms “conspirituality.” This ideology intertwines New Age spirituality with anti-government sentiments and conspiracy theories, feeding into the radicalization process.
Cook reveals, “Most of these women don’t have much opportunity to socialize anymore, and they get their community online.” The isolation caused by the pandemic has made them particularly vulnerable to extremist ideologies, which often serve as a coping mechanism.
The ramifications of January 6 continue to echo, particularly as Trump has publicly supported many of the rioters. “They feel validated and vindicated,” Cook notes, referring to Trump’s actions, including his pardon of nearly 1,600 January 6th defendants. This has emboldened conspiracy theorists who find confirmation in Trump’s rhetoric and actions, intensifying their beliefs and community ties.
Cook’s interviews with participants reveal a striking absence of regret. “I have not talked to anybody personally who regrets that day,” she states. This unwavering conviction is further fueled by ongoing support from Trump and his allies, who continue to engage with conspiracist narratives.
As Cook prepares for the book’s release, she emphasizes the challenge of changing such deep-rooted beliefs. “Facts don’t really matter much,” she explains. Instead, it’s about feelings and community. For many, the conspiracy theories provide a sense of belonging that is tough to dismantle.
The launch of The Conspiracists is a critical moment for understanding the dynamics of extremism in modern America. As Cook’s research uncovers the personal stories behind the headlines, it reveals the urgent need for dialogue and intervention in the face of rising extremism.
As the anniversary approaches, attention turns to how these narratives will continue to shape political discourse and community dynamics in the years to come.
Readers are encouraged to engage with this pressing topic as Cook’s findings promise to provoke discussion about the intersection of gender, extremism, and community in today’s society.
