21. The Problem With Modern Feminism
Modern feminism often treats women’s bodies as a problem to solve – but is there another way?
In this thought-provoking episode of Into the Truth, Pierpaolo Finaldi sits down with Emily Hawkins, pro-life activist, Catholic mother, and communications director for the Alliance of Pro-Life Students. Together, they delve into the tensions between feminism and motherhood, why modern culture sees pregnancy as an obstacle, and how Catholicism offers a radically different vision of women’s dignity.
Emily shares her journey from university activism to navigating the challenges of modern womanhood, unpacking why the feminist movement has a “motherhood-shaped hole” and how embracing femininity as a gift – not a burden – could transform society.
Don’t miss this candid conversation on one of today’s most controversial topics.
“Together We March”: Emily’s book for children on the pro-life cause is available from Catholic Mothers.
Learn more about the Alliance of Pro-Life Students
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👋 Meet this Week’s Guest
Five Things You Need to Know About Emily Hawkins:
- Who is Emily?
Emily is a mother of three and a pro-life activist who currently serves as the Communications Director for the Alliance of Pro-Life Students. - Catholicism and Feminism:
She has a particular interest in the intersection of feminist thought and pro-life stances, with a view to how Catholicism can be the binding thread between the two. - Pro-Life Activism:
Her pro-life advocacy started when she was 15-years-old, after doing a school project on abortion, and continued at university where she campaigned against pro-choice motions at the student union. - Universities and Hostility to Pro-Life Causes:
Emily sees the rise of “safe spaces” where people could be protected from ideas they didn’t like as contributing to the increased hostility towards pro-life views on university campuses. - Spiritual Role Models:
She finds comfort and inspiration as a woman in the importance the Church gives to Our Lady, and in the lives of female saints who she sees as role models.
🎬 Watch a Clip
Looking for something shorter? Be inspired by this clip from the episode:
Why has it become so hard to have honest discussions on university campuses? In this video, Emily Hawkins, a pro-life activist and mother of three, dives into the growing hostility towards open debate, the rise of “safe spaces,” and why some topics are immediately shut down. She also explores why so many young women fear motherhood, how cultural narratives shape their choices, and whether we can reclaim a more balanced conversation.