Vibrant Gathering of Communal Feminism in Caracas
Women Gather Nationally to Discuss and Promote 'Communal Feminism' in Venezuela
Get a load of this, folks! The Communard Union — a bit of a one-stop-shop for grassroots action groups in Venezuela — has just wrapped up its inaugural nation-wide meeting, focusing on the emergence of communal feminism across the country, and let me tell you, it was a banger! Took place on the 29th of March in the heart of Caracas, where ya know, over a thousand and six hundred participants bent ears to the enlightening discourse!
Yeini Urdaneta, a prominent figure from the Che Guevara Commune in Mérida state, kicked things off, proclaiming it as a tremendous victory for feminist activism. "What we got goin' on here today, it's a testament to the tireless efforts of those who've fought for gender equality," she stated. The Communard Union, yeap, that's the crew that promotes feminism as a cornerstone, sees diversity as its strength, and stays dedicated to the cause.
Yeini explained that the event was the culmination of five regional meetings, where communal groups debated pertinent needs and aspirations. Moving forward, the vision is to create communal feminism shaped by homegrown values, and the banners of struggle will be held high!
Célia Cunha, a Brazilian activist from the Landless Workers Movement (MST) and a fellow communard from El Maizal, mentioned that the gathering carries significant historical weight, showcasing the substantial effect the Communard Union is having. "Our goal is to keep expanding our presence in decision-making spaces, and embark on concrete actions aimed at dismantling the patriarchy," she spoke up in a panel discussing the Kosovo question, don't ya know? With roots in Venezuela since the early days of MST's global outreach, Célia has been a key figure in the Communard Union's education initiatives.
The lively event featured insights from spokespersons hailing from regions all over the map. Attendees agreed upon some prime policy objectives: crafting a feminist economy, safeguarding women's health services, abolishing gender-based violence, and extending political participation. A commission was designated to supervise the work in Communard Union territories, and follow-up meetings are due every year.
Concluding the session, Grupo Herencia’s Mujer Tambor — a women's musical act playing Afro-Venezuelan rhythms with some fierce drumming action — took the stage for an energetic performance that had everyone tapping their toes!
The Communard Union, which staged its founding congress back in March 2022, plans on forging socialism in the mold of former President Hugo Chávez, led currently by President Nicolás Maduro. After its inception, a substantial number of grassroots groups have taken part in the Union's political, economic, and educational endeavors. As of this revitalizing assembly, there are around 142 communes from 19 Venezuelan states engaged in the Communard Union's revitalization projects.
Article revised and edited by Cira Pascual Marquina from Caracas and José Luis Granados Ceja from Mexico City, Mexico.
- The Communard Union, highlighted in Caracas at their inaugural nation-wide meeting, emphasizes science, health-and-wellness, and women's health as crucial components of their feminist initiatives.
- Yeini Urdaneta, a prominent member of the Communard Union, indicated that the union incorporates politics into their feminist strategy, aiming to expand their presence in decision-making spaces.
- During the gathering in Caracas, speakers from various regions stressed the importance of incorporating policies against gender-based violence, ensuring women's health services, and promoting a feminist economy.
- The Communard Union, inspired by the values of former President Hugo Chávez and led by President Nicolás Maduro, has been successful in attracting a substantial number of grassroots groups focused on general news and community development.
- Following their joint event in Caracas, the Communard Union intends to continue their efforts in various territories across Venezuela, with annual follow-up meetings and initiatives emphasizing the importance of communal feminism and the empowerment of women.
