Tracee Ellis Ross Shuts Down J.D. Vance’s “Cat Ladies” Comment: “You Don’t Need to Push Out a Baby to Push Humanity Forward!”

Tracee Ellis Ross didn’t hold back during Oprah’s recent town hall when she addressed the controversial comments made by Senator J.D. Vance. The Ohio senator stirred up a debate after suggesting that “childless cat ladies” shouldn’t be making major societal decisions. Ross, a 52-year-old actress and entrepreneur who has spoken openly about her choice not to have children, took the opportunity to clap back with a powerful message about women’s worth beyond motherhood.

“As a 52-year-old childless woman, I want to say to the people who think that a woman’s worth is measured in her baby count – I mean, shout out to all the amazing mothers, but the childless women have been mothering the world,” Ross declared.

Her words were a direct response to Vance’s comments and an affirmation of the many ways childless women contribute to society. “We’ve been elevating culture as aunties, godmothers, teachers, mentors, sisters, and friends, and the list goes on,” she continued. “You do not need to push out a baby to help push humanity forward.”

Ross’s statement was met with a resounding “Amen to that!” from Oprah, who praised her for standing up for women everywhere.

This isn’t the first time Tracee Ellis Ross has spoken up for women living authentically and on their own terms.