Ghislaine Sathoud (Congo Brazzaville)
Together: women unite to build another world
Women have always struggled for their rights. Of course, women's situation is not the same everywhere in the world; in some regions women have made a lot of progress, while in other regions much remains to be done. Nevertheless, all women suffer similar problems and inequality.
African women and women's rights
In July 2002, in
Immigrant women
What do African women who have emigrated think about the situation of the sisters they left behind in
This question evokes my own memories. I'll never forget that winter in 1996, when I was newly married and the mother of a two-year-old and I blithely entered a world that was the opposite of my warm, sun-filled
It is not easy for African women to integrate into the host society. There are set rules in every society, and here, more than elsewhere, we find ourselves in a world of contrasts, between Québec, where women enjoy great freedom, and Africa, where women still must submit to age-old set rules.
The immigrant's lot is often a hard one. The laws of the host society, while they can benefit women, are sometimes used against them. They are torn between the laws and values of the host society and African habits and customs. Women are often confronted with numerous problems. Child rearing, relationship difficulties and the ensuing violence—which quick becomes a very complicated issue in the host country—and a multitude of frustrations associated with having immigrant status are just a few examples.
Also, the lifestyle in the host society differs so radically from that of the home society that social isolation becomes a painful part of the lives of immigrant women: they are not only far from their parents and friends, but are also faced with the difficult task of reconstructing a social network.
To this are added the other forms of discrimination and insults to which women across the planet are subjected. I believe women must unite and speak in one voice to stop the violence. In this respect, the Women's Global Charter for Humanity is most needed.
Regarding the Women's Global Charter for Humanity
Can I, as an African woman, relate to this Charter? Yes, in one sense, because the innovative thing about the Charter is that it draws on universal feminist values to change the world. It takes into account the world's diversity in the construction of another world, a world of hope. For me, diversity is at once a source of richness and strength. The appreciation of diversity is a sign of solidarity and unity that will strengthen all women. The Charter also decries unbridled capitalism, with its accompanying consequences: "racism, sexism, misogyny, xenophobia, homophobia, colonialism, imperialism, and slavery." The Charter counters by advocating for equality freedom, solidarity, justice, peace—all the elements of a peaceful world.
As an African woman and immigrant, I know only too well about the prejudices that represent the biggest obstacles at every level. I feel particularly concerned by the Charter, because I would indeed like to live in this ideal world where diversity is considered as an enriching, rather than divisive, factor. A world where people will live together despite their differences.
But I also know that immigration brings changes that may develop into ugly situations. I worked for the Alliance des Communautés culturelles pour l'égalité et l'accessibilité aux services sociaux (ACCÉSSS) on a domestic violence program. I wrote a text called "Here, it's not the same dear!" The text was interpreted by a theatre troupe and recorded on DVD and cassette. It is used as an awareness-raising tool about domestic violence in different ethnic/cultural communities.
I will conclude with this: in the Charter it says, "Women are free to make decisions about their body, fertility and sexuality. They have the choice about whether they will have children" (Freedom: Affirmation 4). I am particularly struck by this affirmation because of my African origins. Unfortunately, however, in
Ghislaine Sathoud
Originally from Congo-Brazzavile, Ghislaine Sathoud holds a master's degree in international relations and a master's in political science. She is a feminist activist and author of poetry, short stories and plays. She has lived in Québec since 1996. Ms. Sathoud is a member of several literary associations: the Association des écrivains de Langue Française, the Conseil International d'études francophones and the Union des Auteurs et Artistes Africains au Canada.
Last modified 2005-10-12 06:25 AM
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