In the 21st century, the connection of girlhood, social movements, and social media has ignited a powerful force for change. As digital platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, they have not only given rise to what scholars term the “girlhood revolution” but have also given girls and young people an unparalleled influence and responsibility in shaping social movements.
In a world where connectivity knows no bounds, young girls are leveraging social media to redefine their identities, challenge societal norms, and actively participate in the reshaping of cultural narratives. In addition to being consumers of information, they are creators and curators of narratives that challenge the status quo. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become the canvases where girlhood is painted with strokes of cyberbullying and insecurity, but also individuality and empowerment.
Social media has become the rallying ground for a new era of social activism, with girls at the forefront. Movements like #MeToo, #GirlsWhoCode, and #MarchForOurLives have harnessed the power of online spaces to amplify their messages, connect with like-minded individuals globally, and mobilize support. This marks a shift where young individuals are not only witnesses to change but active architects of it. Their voices, once confined to the sidelines, are now resonating across digital landscapes, effecting tangible change in the real world.
While social media opens doors to unprecedented opportunities, it also presents challenges. The curated representations of femininity, cyberbullying, and body image pressures are stark realities that young girls confront online. However, these challenges have become catalysts for resilience and digital literacy. Girls are not just consumers of digital content; they are critical thinkers navigating the complexities of the online world, learning to discern between empowerment and exploitation.
The influence of social media extends beyond national boundaries, providing a platform for global conversations. As girls engage with issues that transcend geographical constraints, they contribute to a broader understanding of cultural relativism. The unique struggles and triumphs of girls with different backgrounds and identities are not isolated; they are interconnected threads in the rich tapestry of global girlhood.
In the digital age, girls and young people find themselves at the intersection of influence and responsibility. They are active participants wielding the power to shape perceptions, challenge norms, and drive movements. As we witness this metamorphosis, it becomes crucial to nurture an environment that fosters digital literacy, resilience, and critical thinking among our youth.
The coalescence of girlhood, social movements, and social media has not only redefined how we perceive these concepts but has also placed an unprecedented influence and responsibility in the hands of girls. As we look toward the future, let us celebrate and support the digital pioneers who are shaping the narratives of today and sowing the seeds for a more empowered, connected, and socially conscious tomorrow.
Author: Daisy Edmondson
“Men and Anti-Violence Initiatives in Afghanistan and Pakistan” by Daisy Edmondson
In Afghanistan and Pakistan, where gender-based violence (GBV) has long cast an oppressive shadow, the role of men in anti-violence initiatives is a subject of profound significance. The article titled “Men and Anti-violence Initiatives: Transnational Feminist Reflections from Afghanistan and Pakistan” by Joyce Wu, published in Gender, Place & Culture: A Journal of Feminist Geography in October of 2019, provides valuable insights into the dynamics of these initiatives and the challenges faced in fostering change.
Wu begins by contextualizing the discussion, acknowledging the pervasive nature of GBV in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Both countries grapple with deeply entrenched patriarchal norms and structures, creating an environment where violence against women is not only prevalent but often normalized. The article examines the unique socio-cultural landscapes that shape the experiences of women in these regions.
The lens through which Wu explores men’s involvement in anti-violence initiatives is distinctly transnational feminist. This perspective recognizes the interconnectedness of feminist struggles globally while appreciating the local nuances that influence the effectiveness of anti-violence efforts. By adopting this approach, the article seeks to transcend borders and provide a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those working towards dismantling patriarchal violence.
A central theme of Wu’s work revolves around the role of men in challenging and changing the deeply ingrained culture of violence. The article critically examines various initiatives and reflections from Afghanistan and Pakistan, highlighting the diverse strategies employed by men involved in anti-violence efforts. It sheds light on the importance of engaging men as allies in the fight against GBV and emphasizes the need for an inclusive approach that acknowledges the complexities of masculinity within these societies.
An important aspect of Wu’s analysis is the consideration of intersectionality, recognizing that individuals experience oppression differently based on various factors such as gender, class, ethnicity, and more. The article highlights the necessity of acknowledging these intersections in anti-violence initiatives to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness.
The challenges faced by men engaged in anti-violence work are not overlooked. The article discusses the resistance encountered due to entrenched gender norms, the potential for co-optation of initiatives, and the complexities of navigating societal expectations. Despite these challenges, the work of these men is presented as a crucial step toward fostering gender equity and dismantling systemic violence.
In concluding the exploration, Wu advocates for a collective and intersectional approach to anti-violence initiatives. The article invites readers to reflect on the significance of men’s involvement in challenging patriarchal structures and encourages a nuanced understanding of the efforts underway in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Wu’s work serves as a call to action for scholars, activists, and policymakers alike. By examining the role of men in anti-violence initiatives through a transnational feminist lens, the article invites a reevaluation of current strategies and emphasizes the importance of fostering collaborations that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.
I found that this perspective provided new insights into the current efforts and men’s role in feminist activism, especially in dangerous conflict zones like Afghanistan. If you’d like to read Wu’s article, I’m providing the link below!
“Ayesha Ahmad’s Work on Gender-Based Violence and Trauma Interventions for Afghan Women” by Daisy Edmondson
In recent years, the plight of Afghan women has gained increasing attention, shedding light on the complex interplay between conflict, gender-based violence (GBV), and mental health. Ayesha Ahmad, a researcher committed to dismantling harmful ideologies and practices towards women and girls in conflict-ridden societies, presents a critical reflection on her work in global health. Her research, encapsulated in articles like “A Qualitative Study of Women’s Lived Experiences of Conflict and Domestic Violence in Afghanistan” and “Urgent Health and Humanitarian Needs of the Afghan Population Under the Taliban”, unveils the multifaceted challenges faced by Afghan women and the ethical obligations of researchers in this domain.
Afghanistan’s history, marred by conflict and oppressive regimes, has propelled activism as a crucial strategy for advancing women’s rights. However, as Ahmad points out, governmental approval hurdles and the lack of representation of Muslim women in academia create challenges for effective collaboration between international actors and Afghan activists. The dichotomy between global health actors and recipients further complicates power dynamics, risking the silencing and marginalization of Afghan women activists.
Ahmad emphasizes the need to distinguish between silence and silencing when understanding the experiences of Afghan women. The Where Is My Name campaign exemplifies the deep-seated violence engrained in women’s contextual experiences, prompting a call to create spaces, including academia, receptive to oppressed voices. Drawing on the works of Haideh Moghissi, Ahmad critiques prevailing narratives that portray Afghan women merely as victims, urging a more informed understanding of their lives.
The article furthermore challenges prevailing victimhood narratives by advocating for a comprehensive understanding of Afghan women’s agency and resistance against violence. Ahmad draws parallels with historical figures like Rabia Balkhi and Rabia al Basri, highlighting the instrumental role of narratives, especially poetry, in sustaining women under oppression. The intersectionality of narrative in global health emerges as a powerful tool for channeling activist objectives through academic collaboration.
Recognizing the urgent need for culturally relevant solutions, Ahmad introduces the Storytelling for Health: Acknowledgement, Recovery, and Expression (SHAER) network. This trauma therapeutic intervention, rooted in traditional storytelling, aims to address the mental health needs of women experiencing GBV in conflict settings. Ahmad acknowledges the challenges of balancing academic discourse with the danger faced by women sharing their stories on the frontline. Moreover, she encourages the collaboration between academia and activism and rejects the notion of their inseparability. The SHAER network becomes a symbol of resilience and a shared narrative that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
In unveiling the silence surrounding Afghan women’s experiences, Ayesha Ahmad’s work serves as a call for researchers, activists, and academics alike to actively engage with narratives that have been silenced, marginalized, and oppressed. The SHAER initiative stands as a testament to the potential of traditional storytelling in fostering healing, empowerment, and social change for women enduring the complexities of conflict and violence.
Ahmad’s work that I mentioned here can be found at the links below if you’d like to read more from her about these issues:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bioe.12667
https://web.s.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail/detail?vid=0&sid=3bbaf0a7-02e8-42b6-a235-45264ecc63a6%40redis&bdata=JkF1dGhUeXBlPWlwLHNoaWImc2l0ZT1laG9zdC1saXZlJnNjb3BlPXNpdGU%3d#AN=151780449&db=fyh
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)01963-2/fulltext
“Tennessee and Pennsylvania: State(s) of Gender Policies for School-Aged Children in the United States” by Daisy Edmondson
In recent times, gender policies regarding school-aged children in the United States have become increasingly contentious, sparking debates and legal battles across the country. Two prominent cases shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by families and educators in addressing gender-related issues.
Families of transgender youth in Tennessee are grappling with a state law that bans gender-affirming care. Nearly half of U.S. states have passed similar legislation, leading to a patchwork of legal outcomes. Federal appeals courts in the southeast have generally favored the states, prompting Tennessee parents to seek intervention from the U.S. Supreme Court.
The Williams family, whose transgender daughter is directly affected by the law, faced a roller coaster of legal challenges. Despite a temporary injunction, the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals lifted the ban, arguing that the law does not discriminate based on sex. ACLU attorney Lucas Cameron-Vaughn, representing families in similar situations, argues that the court’s rationale fails to acknowledge the broader applications of hormone therapy, impacting not only transgender teens but also individuals with other medical conditions.
As the U.S. Supreme Court considers the petition, the outcome could set a national precedent for gender-affirming care, influencing the rights of transgender youth across the country.
In northeastern Pennsylvania, school board elections have transformed from debates about teacher salaries to issues surrounding gender identity policies. The Southern Lehigh school board race has become highly competitive and polarized, reflecting a broader trend in local politics becoming increasingly nationalized.
Candidates like Doug Durham and his slate of “true Republicans” have endorsed policies aiming to review curricula and restrict students from using bathrooms aligned with their gender identity. These positions have sparked criticism, with opponents arguing that such policies infringe on free speech and the rights of transgender students. The race exemplifies the shifting landscape of school board elections, where once nonpartisan contests are now influenced by national debates over the role of parents in schools.
University of Pennsylvania professor Dan Hopkins notes that school boards, traditionally considered local entities, have become battlegrounds for national political battles. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift, with decisions about school closures and remote learning becoming focal points. Local candidates now draw inspiration and support from national groups, contributing to the polarization of school board races.
The controversies surrounding gender policies in schools highlight the intersection of local and national politics, impacting the lives of students and families. As legal battles unfold and school board races become increasingly polarized, the results will shape the educational landscape for school-aged children, emphasizing the need for informed and inclusive discussions around gender-related issues in educational settings.
If you’d like to learn more, I learned about these cases in these articles:
https://www.npr.org/2023/11/02/1210266250/trans-teens-families-ask-supreme-court-to-protect-gender-affirming-care-in-tenne
https://www.npr.org/2023/11/05/1210734107/a-school-board-race-is-pennsylvania-is-heating-up-with-gender-policies-on-the-ba
“Iceland’s Bold Stand: A National Strike for Gender Equality” by Daisy Edmondson
In a powerful display of unity, women and nonbinary individuals across Iceland, including Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir, recently participated in a one-day strike to protest gender inequality. Organized by the Icelandic Federation of Public Workers, the strike aimed to bring attention to the persisting gender pay gap and the undervaluation of women’s work.
On the day of the strike, tens of thousands of people, including a quarter of Iceland’s population, walked off their jobs, refusing to engage in any work, paid or unpaid. The strike not only encompassed professional duties but also household errands and childcare. Freyja Steingrímsdóttir, the communications director for the Icelandic Federation of Public Workers, highlighted the noticeable impact, with closed stores, limited services, and a distinct change in traffic as only men were seen driving.
The strike’s slogan, “You call this equality?” challenged Iceland’s top-ranking status in gender equality indexes. Despite the country’s notable achievements, the organizers emphasized that these indexes often overlook issues such as gender-based and sexual violence, affecting almost 40% of Icelandic women. The focus also extended to the wage gap, primarily influenced by the undervaluation of women’s work in sectors like healthcare, childcare, and cleaning.
The strike drew attention to the burden of unpaid labor that women bear, affecting their earnings and perpetuating the wage gap. By emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing this issue, the organizers aimed to dismantle the societal structures that contribute to gender inequality.
This strike follows a legacy of activism in Iceland, with the first full-day strike for gender equality taking place almost 50 years ago. Freyja Steingrímsdóttir expressed hope for change within the decade, echoing Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir’s vision of achieving full gender equality. Despite progress, the fight continues, with the hope that future generations will not need to repeat such strikes.
The strike has garnered attention beyond Iceland’s borders, showcasing the country’s commitment to addressing gender inequality. Organized by groups like the Icelandic Feminist Initiative, Women in Film and Tech, and the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, the movement extends an invitation to men to stand in solidarity by filling in for women at work and at home.
Iceland’s recent national strike stands as a testament to the collective will to address gender inequality comprehensively. By challenging societal norms and shedding light on overlooked issues, the participants send a powerful message that resonates both nationally and internationally. As Iceland continues to lead the charge for gender equality, the hope is that such strikes will become unnecessary in the years to come.
If you’re interested in reading (or listening) to more about this topic, check out these articles:
https://www.npr.org/2023/10/25/1208577504/gender-inequality-protesters-in-iceland-refused-to-do-work-for-a-day-even-child
https://www.npr.org/2023/10/24/1208264449/iceland-women-nonbinary-strike
or this podcast:
https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2023/10/25/iceland-womens-strike
Op-ed: “Marxist Feminism – a Lens on Migrant Labor” by Daisy Edmondson
“The Filipino nanny is the Mercedes Benz amongst the international [caregivers].”
-Rhacel Salazar Parreñas
The experiences of migrant domestic workers in Arab states, as explored by Rhacel Salazar Parreñas in her book “Unfree: Migrant Domestic Workers in Arab States,” provide an enlightening study about gender, class, labor, and migration that can be effectively analyzed through the lens of Marxist feminism to better understand this complex issue. Before discussing the Marxist feminist perspective, let’s review the context if you are not yet familiar with it (or with this insightful book!). Migrant domestic workers, predominantly women, leave their home countries, often in Southeast Asia or Africa (the book’s focus is on women from the Philippines, specifically), to seek employment in the wealthy oil-rich Arab states. These women work in households as cleaners, nannies, and caregivers for the elderly. In doing so, they leave behind their own families to support them financially, exposing themselves to a host of challenges, including poor working conditions, lack of legal protections, and social isolation.
The tensions between Marxism and feminism stem from the tendency of Marxism to underestimate the specific gender-based challenges faced by these workers, but Marxist feminism and the experiences of migrant domestic workers in the Arab states align in their emphasis on the oppressive influence of capitalism on women’s lives. Moreover, Marxist feminism, as a theoretical framework, offers a tool to examine the issues within this dynamic. This perspective contends that the oppressive systems of capitalism and patriarchy intertwine, mutually reinforcing each other. When applied to the experiences of migrant domestic workers, the infantilization and dehumanization (Parreñas identifies these as cultures of treatment towards the migrant domestic workers, in addition to recognition) they face are unveiled as a product of these intertwined systems.
In the Arab states, the powerful capitalist economies and its families rely on low-cost, flexible domestic labor. This reliance not only sustains the capitalist system but also perpetuates patriarchal norms. Migrant domestic workers, predominantly women, are seen as expendable labor within this system. Their work is undervalued, and their rights are often disregarded as many of them work tirelessly in unjust conditions to earn money, which is sometimes illegally withheld from them by their employers, for their survival and for their loved ones at home. These women simultaneously face gender-based discrimination and the exploitation of their labor. Without understanding these simultaneous conditions and intersectionality, efforts to provide legal or monetary aid and advocacy to these women are often misguided and do not comprehensively address the diverse labor conditions they face.
The issues raised in “Unfree” are not isolated but reflect broader global dynamics. Understanding the intersection of class, gender, and migration in the context of migrant labor is crucial for addressing the injustices faced by these marginalized populations. These perspectives encourage us to continuously refine our theoretical and practical tools for achieving a more inclusive and equitable society. By understanding the complexities of migrant labor through the lens of Marxist feminism, we may become better equipped to advocate for change with these resilient women in their pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families as they exercise “antipower” and take control of negotiations regarding their labor conditions.
“Misogyny in ‘Post-War’ Afghanistan: Unveiling the Shadows of Gender-Based Violence” by Daisy Edmondson
This article investigates the deeply concerning issue of misogyny and the shifting dynamics of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in post-war Afghanistan. Moreover, the research raises questions regarding the evolving nature of misogyny in Afghanistan following the war, the underlying causes of gender-based violence, and the impact of changing sociopolitical contexts on Afghan women’s experiences. By exploring these questions, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges women face in a post-conflict society. It highlights the importance of adapting intervention strategies to address the evolving dynamics of misogyny and the root causes of gender-based violence in Afghanistan.
Moreover, the article addresses pertinent questions for policy and practice. It emphasizes the need for robust support systems for survivors of SGBV, as well as strategies to challenge the deep-rooted misogynistic attitudes in today’s Afghan society. The authors suggest collaboration between international organizations and local initiatives as a means to enhance the effectiveness of interventions. The study also highlights the significance of educational and awareness programs in reducing gender-based violence, emphasizing the role of public education in shifting societal norms. This research contributes to the theoretical understanding of gender-based violence and provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners working to create safer and more equitable conditions for Afghan women in the aftermath of war.
Ahmad, L., & P. Anctil Avoine. (2018). “Misogyny in ‘Post-War’ Afghanistan: The Changing Frames of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.” Journal of Gender Studies, 27(1), 86-101. https://doi.org/10.1080/09589236.2016.1210002
“Mental Health Consequences of Violence Against Women and Girls” by Daisy Edmondson
Violence against women and girls is a global issue that has far-reaching consequences, affecting physical, emotional, and mental well-being. A study from 2015, titled “Mental Health Consequences of Violence Against Women and Girls,” explores the profound impact of such violence on mental health. Moreover, the study investigates the intricate relationship between violence and mental health, prompting several research and theoretical inquiries into the underlying psychological mechanisms linking violence to mental health issues and the immediate aftermath of violence with its potential long-term consequences. This involves exploring the moderating role of coping strategies and resilience in mitigating these effects as well as the emergence of delayed or latent effects that may manifest years after the violent incident, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the prolonged impact on survivors. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of considering intersectionality, as violence often intersects with other forms of discrimination, such as racism or socioeconomic disparities. Given that the study’s findings are specific to a particular cultural context, exploring potential variations in the mental health consequences of violence against women and girls in different cultural and societal settings through comparative research can provide insights into the cultural factors that either mitigate or exacerbate these effects. Furthermore, the study suggests that the mental health consequences of women in conflict zones be further studied in this context.
To prevent violence against women and girls, there’s a critical need to develop targeted prevention programs informed by the research’s insights, as addressing the root cause is essential in reducing the mental health consequences. Moreover, creating accessible, sensitive, and effective support services for women and girls who have experienced violence is imperative. Policymakers should focus on tailoring mental health services to meet the specific needs of survivors while working to ensure that these services are widely available and free from stigma. Legal systems must play a pivotal role in protecting women and girls from violence. Strengthening laws to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable is a priority, and these legal systems should also better support survivors in their pursuit of justice. Additionally, steps should be taken to raise awareness about the mental health consequences of violence against women and girls at various levels, from schools to communities, in order to reduce stigmatization and empower survivors. This comprehensive approach, encompassing research, policy, and practice, can help address the multifaceted issue of violence against women and its mental health repercussions.
Satyanarayana, V. A., P.S. Chandra, & K. Vaddiparti. (2015). “Mental Health Consequences of Violence Against Women and Girls.” Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 28(5), 350-356. doi: 10.1097/YCO.0000000000000182. https://oce.ovid.com/article/00001504-201509000-00004/HTML
“Cracks in the Ceiling: Zimbabwe’s Female Politicians Decline” by Daisy Edmondson
The upcoming elections in the Republic of Zimbabwe are showing a troubling decline in women’s political representation. Despite comprising the majority of registered voters, women’s presence in politics is dwindling, with only 70 (11%) female candidates for the National Assembly and no female presidential candidates in the 2023 race. This lack of representation is compared to the presence of four female presidential candidates in 2018, two of whom were initially not considered because of issues regarding the timeliness of their nomination papers and payment of nomination fees; the candidates had to go to court to be considered (one was successful). The high nomination fees, which have risen significantly, pose a financial barrier for aspiring female leaders, further marginalizing them. This decline demonstrates the patriarchal nature of this political structure, despite constitutional gender balance provisions. Women’s participation is obstructed by a lack of political efforts to promote gender equality, making them disadvantaged in Zimbabwean politics. This situation highlights the urgent need for efforts to address gender inequality in politics and create a more inclusive environment for women to engage in shaping the nation’s future.
If you’d like to learn more about the current political situation, please check out this article:
For more information on the history of gender inequality in the Republic of Zimbabwe since 1980 (when they gained independence from Great Britain), check out this blog post: https://borgenproject.org/tag/ministry-of-women-affairs-and-community-development/
“India’s Supreme Court Rejects Same-Sex Marriages” by Daisy Edmondson
India’s Supreme Court has declined an appeal to legalize same-sex marriages, which is a significant setback to LGBTQ rights in the country. The ruling, which came after hearings in April and May of this year, saw 3/5 justices deciding that the issue should be addressed by parliament rather than the judiciary branch. Though Chief Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud supported the creation of a panel to consider rights and benefits for same-sex couples, he emphasized the need for the state to provide legal protections to LGBTQ individuals. Chandrachud encourages that denying them these benefits infringes on their fundamental rights. This decision by the Supreme Court follows a petition asserting that the absence of legal recognition for same-sex unions violates LGBTQ people’s constitutional rights.
The ruling has been met with disappointment from LGBTQ activists, who had hoped for the recognition of same-sex marriages. Despite the decriminalization of homosexuality in India in 2018, discrimination against sexual minorities continues in the country. The conservative stance of the government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has obstructed progress in LGBTQ rights. While this decision represents a setback for LGBTQ rights in India, it also highlights the ongoing struggle for equal rights and the need for greater societal acceptance and change in the perception of sexuality.
If you’d like to read more about the ruling, you can check out this article:
https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2023/8/22/another-zimbabwe-election-cycle-reveals-decline-of-women-in-politics