In a powerful and symbolic act, pink smoke rose over Rome — not to announce the election of a new pope, but to send a bold message: “We’re done with male dominance in the Church.”
The protest, staged near the Vatican, mimicked the famous “white smoke” ritual used to signal the selection of a new pope. But this time, it was pink — a color long associated with women’s rights — and it carried a clear political and social statement.
A Symbolic Act Inspired by #MeToo
Organized under the banner of the #ChurchToo movement, the demonstration drew inspiration from global campaigns like MeToo, calling attention to systemic sexism, sexual abuse, and the lack of female representation in Church leadership.
“This pink smoke is our way of saying: we are no longer watching decisions being made without us,” said one of the organizers. “We want equality, transparency, and a seat at the table.”
Where Are the Women in the Vatican?
Despite their crucial roles in education, charity work, and community service within the Church, women remain excluded from positions of power. They cannot become priests, bishops, or cardinals. Even advisory councils within the Vatican rarely include female voices.
Critics argue that the Catholic Church has failed to modernize its stance on gender roles, while supporters of the protest say change is long overdue.
Mixed Reactions
The pink smoke stunt sparked both praise and criticism. Many praised the creativity and courage behind the act, calling it a necessary wake-up call for the Church.
Others, however, condemned it as disrespectful — even sacrilegious.
But the protesters insist: this is just the beginning.
A Message That Rose With the Smoke
While the pink smoke faded quickly into the Roman sky, its message lingers. Women are no longer willing to stay in the background — especially in an institution that claims to serve all of humanity.
As one protester put it:
“God doesn’t have a gender. Why should His Church?”