Riot Grrrls and the power of the fan phenomenon: how feminism found its cultural voice

In Fucked. Feminist Fans. The origins of #MeToo from a musical pop culture perspective., Leyre Marinas delves into the connections between the music, feminist movements and sexism spread by the media.

From the groupies of the 60s and the publication of the fanzine Riot Grrrls! in Olympia, Washington, to the Spice Girls' Girl Power, Madonna, Britney Spears or Lady GagaThis essay traces a unique journey through how feminisms have transformed pop culture.

Leyre Marinas debunks stereotypes that infantilize female fans, such as Taylor Swift's Swifties, and highlights their power as agents of change. Examples like the K-pop-led boycott of Donald Trump in 2020 or the #FreeBritney movement show how collective passion can challenge the status quo.

The outbreak of #MeToo marked a point of no return, connecting decades of feminist struggle from the music to global activism, and reflecting the impact of those who use their voice to transform society.

An essay for those who've ever felt "fucked" but decided to pick themselves up and move on. Ready to dive into this story.