In her 1996 speech to Wellesley graduates, Nora Ephron highlighted the persistent antagonism faced by women and the backlash against progress, exemplified by criticisms of public figures like Hillary Clinton. This reflects a broader societal issue where women's advancement is often met with resistance, indicating a wish among some to revert to traditional gender roles.

Rebecca Traister's book, "Big Girls Don't Cry: The Election that Changed Everything for American Women," reinforces Ephron's message by demonstrating how political attacks on women resonate with the wider challenges many face. Every critique of a strong woman is a reminder of the gender biases that continue to exist, urging women to recognize and confront these issues collectively.