A Clarion ‘CatCall’

When U.S. Vice-Presidential nominee JD Vance called women without children “miserable childless cat ladies,” he didn’t anticipate the fierce backlash that would follow. In the wake of Vance’s derogatory remarks, women from all walks of life — whether single, partnered, childless by choice, or by circumstance — have rallied together to reclaim the term with pride.

The (#ChildlessCatwomen) movement has seen a surge in women, men, and childless couples from across the world sharing photos of themselves with their beloved feline companions, embracing the label of “Cat Lady” as a badge of honour rather than a mark of shame. Many men and women are even sporting the “Childless Cat Lady” T-shirts which are selling like hotcakes!

Dr. Siddhi Agasta (33) from Mumbai says, “I’ve no idea why people like to psychoanalyse everything women do. If a lady chooses to remain childless and adopt some cats it doesn’t mean she has to be categorised in some sort of bracket. It’s childish. You choose to have kids or not, or just have animals. It’s your choice.”

Derogatory Term

The phrase “childless cat lady” has long been a derogatory term used to belittle single women who don’t conform to societal expectations of marriage and motherhood. What started as a hurtful stereotype has been flipped on its

head, leading to the rise of the #ChildlessCatwomen campaign, which is now spreading like wildfire across social media and beyond.

Top celebrities like Jenifer Aniston, Glenn Close, and Chelsea Handler have lambasted Vance for his derogatory remarks against childless single women. Slamming Vance, Jenifer Aniston wrote on Instagram: “I truly cannot believe this is coming from a potential VP. All I can say is … Mr Vance, I pray that your daughter is fortunate enough to bear children of her own one day.”

Hollywood stalwart Glenn Close (77) posted a picture of herself with her cat on @glennclose saying, “Eve would have left a bleeding mouse head in the bed of anyone who criticised any kind of lady with a CAT.”

Cool Cats

Today, #ChildlessCatwomen has become a global clarion call.

From New York to Tokyo, London to India, the movement has resonated with women, men and childless couples globally. They are not just sharing

images of their cats; they are sharing their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs. Many are using this moment to speak out against the societal pressures that dictate that a woman’s worth is tied to her ability to bear children. The #ChildlessCatladiesforharris2024 campaign has become a platform for women to challenge these outdated norms and celebrate their lives as they are.

Symbol of Defiance

As the movement gains traction, women are organising meetups, virtual and in-person, to discuss issues related to childlessness, whether by choice or circumstance and to share their love for their pets. These gatherings have also become spaces for women to connect, support one another, and challenge the stereotypes that have been imposed upon them. Andrea Martínez (25), a cat parent says, “Women have been at the receiving end of such comments forever. Some men like to hate everything we love.”

In a particularly striking display of solidarity, many women have donned cat-themed costumes, drawing inspiration from the iconic Catwoman character, to make a bold statement. They’ve posted photos with captions like: “We’re not miserable; we’re fierce, independent, and proud! #Childless Catwomen.”

Broader Conversation

While the #ChildlessCatwomen campaign began as a response to Vance's remarks, it has sparked a much broader conversation about the societal expectations placed on women. Many women have used the hashtag to share their experiences with the pressure of having children and the snide remarks they face if they are unable to conceive.

The movement also shines a light on the deep bond between humans and animals, particularly for those who find companionship and fulfilment in their

pets. Celebrated comedian cum actor Chelsea Handler shared her views on social media saying: “All of us childless cat and dog ladies are going to go from ‘childless and crushing it’ to ‘childless and crushing you’ in November.”

Global Impact

The impact of the #ChildlessCatladies movement has been profound. It has brought together a community of women who might otherwise feel isolated or marginalized, offering them a sense of belonging and empowerment. It has also challenged the narratives that define women’s worth by their marital status or motherhood, pushing for a more inclusive understanding of what it means to live a fulfilling life. As the movement continues to grow, it serves as a reminder that words matter, and so do the people who choose to stand up against harmful stereotypes.

The #ChildlessCatladies campaign is a testament to the power of collective action and the resilience of those who refuse to be defined by outdated labels.

I've no idea why people like to psychoanalyse everything women do. You choose to have kids or not, or just have animals. It’s your choice.” — Dr. Siddhi Agasta, Mumbai

I truly cannot believe this is coming from a potential VP. All I can say is … Mr Vance, I pray that your daughter is fortunate enough to bear children of her own one day.” — Jenifer Aniston, actor

Women have been at the receiving end of such comments forever. Some men just like to hate everything we love.” — Andrea Martínez, a cat parent

All of us childless cat and dog ladies are going to go from 'childless and crushing it' to 'childless and crushing you' in November.” — Chelsea Handler,

comedian cum actor

Eve would have left a bleeding mouse head in the bed of anyone who criticised any kind of lady with a CAT.” — Glenn Close, actor