LDS Audit

Ballerina Farm, Hannah Neeleman, and the Mormon Trad Wife Movement | Ep. 1926

The Intersection of Ballerina Farm and the Trad Wife Movement in Mormonism

The Ballerina Farm phenomenon, led by Hannah Neeleman, highlights an unexpectedly polarized cultural moment within Mormonism. With a staggering following across platforms, the social media presence of the Neeleman family encapsulates an embrace of traditional gender roles that both charms and concerns many within and outside the faith. Their content not only resonates with those adhering to the values of the "Trad Wife" movement but also raises critical questions about the patriarchal structures that inform these ideals within the broader context of Latter-day Saint theology.

A Brief Overview of the Trad Wife Ideology

The "Trad Wife" movement seeks to uphold a nostalgic vision of femininity centered around domesticity, motherhood, and submission to one's husband. Hannah Neeleman exemplifies this archetype, promoting a lifestyle supported by traditional values that align closely with historical Mormon teachings about gender roles. The belief that women should nurture and prioritize home and family while men preside and provide has deep roots within Mormonism, echoing sentiments documented by early church leaders.

Hannah, a ballet dancer turned influencer, has gained traction by curating content that celebrates motherhood and the domestic sphere. Her picturesque online persona draws upon ideals that resonate with a segment of modern society yearning for connection to traditional family structures. However, this has sparked a complex dialogue around gender, agency, and the implications of such a revival in contemporary times.

Unearthing the Historical Context