Introduction
The African continent has a rich and complex history, marked by both the oppression and resistance of its people, especially women, in the face of systemic oppression. Despite progress, African women continue to encounter barriers rooted in political structures and religious and cultural norms that sustain internalized and institutionalized oppression, which limits our participation in leadership positions and decision-making and impedes women’s flourishing. This paper explores the role of women in the contemporary socio-political and religious sphere and investigates the complex and intersectional nature of women’s oppression. It suggests ways to challenge oppressive structures while nurturing women’s self-determination and solidarity for a shared vision of liberation and transformation.
Research problem and objectives
The initial data of two focus groups, women pastors and members of the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar, revealed the obstacles restricting women’s participation in the church’s mission and the public sphere. Institutionalized and internalized oppression pushes women to the margins and inhibits their full contribution. Societal, political, and religious norms impose triple oppression on women. Patriarchy, classism, and imperialism through societal and religious traditions develop internalized images affecting women’s identity and silence them.
Thus, this paper investigates the intersection of societal and religious practices influenced by patriarchy, classism, and imperialism that oppress women. By identifying the mechanisms of triple oppression, this research asks what African Malagasy women ought to do to nurture self-determination and foster solidarity for a shared vision of liberation and transformation.
Methodology
The research employs interdisciplinary perspectives. Through critical qualitative research and humanizing methodologies, the study centers on dialogue and critical listening. This approach aims to develop trust and respect and puts forward collective endeavors to sustain the kinship community where all God's creations flourish together in God's kin-dom. The study also uses African Women's liberation theologies with the aid of decolonizing methodologies to challenge oppressive practices and transform obstacles that hinder women's flourishing. The research also nurtures self-determination through remembering the past and envisioning a future that binds women together. It fosters solidarity towards a shared vision of liberation and transformation.
Literature Review-Theoretical framework
The paper draws on postcolonial feminist theories, African Women’s liberation theologies, and decolonizing methodologies as primary theoretical frameworks. Postcolonial feminist approaches provide an understanding of how colonialism and imperialism have shaped the cultural and religious dynamics that continue to affect African women. Their methods scrutinize and challenge oppressive systems, including various methods of resistance and liberation, and implement strategies for women’s empowerment (Dube, “Postcoloniality, Feminist Spaces, and Religion,” 115-116). On the other hand, African Women’s liberation theologies offer a framework for understanding African women’s unique experiences and how they built resistance and fostered solidarity toward our liberation. (Lushombo, 74-77). Decolonizing methodologies develop practices for self-determination to nurture women’s empowerment and envision a future. (Smith, 148-159)
By applying these frameworks, the paper will critically engage with African women’s historical and contemporary roles and explore how we may foster self-determination and solidarity for liberation and transformation.
Significance and scope of the research.
The research primarily focuses on women’s experiences and their roles within societal and religious institutions, particularly in contexts where patriarchy, classism, and imperialism intersect. The study explores two case studies in Sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, emphasizing African Women and postcolonial perspectives. However, the scope offers insights for the global dimension, recognizing the complexities and uniqueness of women’s experiences worldwide.
Conclusion
This research aims to provide an understanding of how patriarchy, classism, and imperialism intersect to oppress women in both society and the church. By examining the internalized effects of oppression and identifying the barriers that prevent women from flourishing, the study offers practical insights for challenging these structures and fostering solidarity toward liberation and transformation. Ultimately, the goal is to empower women to break free from the constraints of institutionalized oppression, enabling us to contribute fully to the betterment of society and the church.
Bibliography
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This paper explores African women's historical and contemporary challenges in navigating systemic oppression within political, religious, and cultural contexts. Despite progresses, African women continue to confront deeply entrenched barriers rooted in patriarchy, classism, and imperialism, which hinder their participation in leadership roles and decision-making processes. The study investigates the intersectionality of women's oppression, particularly within the socio-political and religious spheres, and highlights how these forces impact women's flourishing. By examining the internalized effects of this oppression, the paper offers insights to challenge these structures and foster solidarity among women. The research aims to empower women through self-determination and collective actions toward liberation and transformation, ultimately enabling them to contribute fully in the church and the public sphere.