UPDATE: A powerful new book and film titled The Conspiracists: Women, Extremism, and the Lure of Belonging by ethnographer Noelle Cook is set to launch on January 6, 2025, marking the fifth anniversary of the Capitol riot. Cook’s work delves into the alarming rise of female extremism linked to the events of that fateful day.
Cook vividly recalls her shock upon witnessing the chaos at Capitol Hill on January 6, 2021. The author was not there to partake in the “Stop the Steal” rally but found herself amidst a scene of violence and confusion, witnessing the aftermath of the police shooting of Ashli Babbitt, an Air Force veteran. “It was almost like this sinister carnival,” Cook described, reflecting on the violent rhetoric she encountered.
This urgent new release reveals how women like Yvonne St. Cyr and Tammy Butry became pivotal figures in the insurrection. Both women played active roles during the riot; St. Cyr led a mob through Capitol tunnels, while Butry, draped in a blue Trump flag, documented the chaos with selfies. St. Cyr received a 30-month prison sentence, while Butry served 20 days.
Through extensive research, Cook identified a troubling trend: many women involved in the riot were drawn into conspiracy theories during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Most of these women don’t have that much opportunity to socialize anymore, and they get their community online,” she noted. These online groups became breeding grounds for extremist views, with many women finding solace in conspiracies that provided a sense of belonging.
Cook emphasizes that personal trauma and societal isolation significantly contributed to their radicalization. “Conspiracies serve as a coping mechanism for many people,” she stated, highlighting the emotional impact of such beliefs on their lives.
In a startling revelation, Cook notes that none of the participants she interviewed expressed remorse for their actions on January 6. This sentiment was echoed by the actions of former President Donald Trump, who pardoned nearly 1,600 January 6th defendants upon his return to office, further validating the beliefs of those involved. “They all feel validated and vindicated,” Cook remarked.
As conspiracy theories continue to thrive, Cook warns that the influence of figures like Trump and the connections to movements such as QAnon have only intensified. “For so long as people with authority continue to stoke the fire… I don’t know how it does change,” she expressed.
The insights presented in The Conspiracists are crucial as they shed light on the mechanisms behind radicalization, especially among women who find themselves increasingly isolated and searching for community.
In a world grappling with misinformation, Cook’s work could not be more timely. “There’s nothing really anyone can do, I don’t think, to extract people until they have a reason to see it themselves,” she concluded, emphasizing the deep-seated challenges of confronting conspiracy beliefs.
This book not only captures the momentous events of January 6 but also serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle against extremism and the importance of understanding its roots. As the anniversary approaches, the conversation around these critical issues continues to evolve, urging society to confront the realities of radicalization and community in the digital age.
