Roxane Gay Discusses 'Trad Wife' Trend, Upcoming Projects at New Orleans Book Festival

The acclaimed feminist author spoke about feminism, pop culture, and her new novel with Channing Tatum at Tulane University.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 11:03pm

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Renowned feminist writer Roxane Gay took the stage at the New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University for a conversation with Harvard professor Imani Perry. Gay discussed the state of feminism, the 'trad wife' trend on TikTok, and her upcoming projects, including a romance novel co-authored with actor Channing Tatum.

Why it matters

As a prominent feminist voice, Gay's perspectives on the current state of the feminist movement and its challenges provide valuable insight. Her upcoming projects, including a collaboration with a major Hollywood star, also highlight her influence and the continued importance of feminist literature and storytelling.

The details

During the conversation, Gay and Perry reflected on the progress the feminist movement has made as well as the ongoing work ahead, especially in the face of efforts to roll back the rights of certain groups. Gay emphasized that feminism remains 'alive and well' despite facing 'a very patriarchal and very powerful force.' The discussion also touched on the 'trad wife' trend on TikTok and the role of women in positions of power. Additionally, Gay shared details about her upcoming projects, including a grief memoir about the loss of her mother, a book of writing advice, and a romance novel co-authored with actor Channing Tatum.

  • The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University took place on March 17, 2026.
  • Roxane Gay's new novel 'The Portable Feminist Reader' was published in March 2025.

The players

Roxane Gay

An acclaimed feminist writer and the author of several critically praised books, including the bestselling 'Bad Feminist.'

Imani Perry

A Harvard University professor of women, gender and sexuality studies and of African and African-American studies who moderated the conversation with Roxane Gay.

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What they’re saying

“Feminism is alive and well … just up against a very patriarchal and very powerful force.”

— Roxane Gay (The Tulane Hullabaloo)

“[When] young women and some young men ask if there's a place for them in feminism, the answer is always going to be yes.”

— Roxane Gay (The Tulane Hullabaloo)

What’s next

Roxane Gay's upcoming projects include a grief memoir about the loss of her mother, a book of writing advice to be released next year, and a romance novel co-authored with actor Channing Tatum.

The takeaway

Roxane Gay's conversation at the New Orleans Book Festival underscores the continued relevance and importance of feminist voices and perspectives, even as the movement faces ongoing challenges. Her upcoming projects, including a collaboration with a major Hollywood star, demonstrate the enduring power of feminist storytelling and literature.