Gender Equity Unit • IMBEWU • Issue 5

IMBEWU Gender Equity Unit Student Newsletter Issue 5 | November 2013

20 Years of

Intellectual Activism

20 Years of Educating for Equity

Director’s Word Pg.3 20th Anniversary: Appreciation Ceremony Pg.4 20th Anniversary: Difficult Conversation Series Pg.5 Stop The Violence:

I Take Responsibility Pg.6 In conversation with: Surya Monro & Shelley Barry Pg.7

A lyric from one of my favourite songs goes, “The more things change, the more they stay the same”. It got me thinking about the state of society, and how hopeless it seems at times. With the news screaming the usual lines of murder, rape, violence, it is not easy to keep up the fight for change.

I recently asked in an article I wrote, “Why now?” This was asked because of the timing of the event held by the University of the Western Cape which was in response to the rape of Anene Booysen. Many were shocked by the gruesome nature of this act, but others who have been campaigning against gender-based violence for years, wondered why now.

But to look on the ever-persistent bright side, the event was momentous in its scale, and hopefully sets a precedent for other such events.

However, we do hope that this event raised awareness for everyday activism, and for people to wake up and take cogniscence of the extent of violence against women in South Africa.

The most recent events covered in this issue included the 20th Anniversary Difficult Conversation series, as well as the International Day Against Homo- and Transprejudice (IDAHOT) Awareness Week, organised by LoudEnuf and Gayla-UWC. We have also had successful South African Sign Language (SASL) sessions hosted by HumaNature, as well as the Human Rights film festival from the Food Programme.

Here at IMBEWU, a new crop of eager writers have graced us with their presences, and voices. We look forward to furthering our take on awareness through the power of writing.

IDAHOT Awareness Week Pg.8

Where were you when you turned 20? Think about it. Some of our volunteers at the Gender Equity Unit (GEU) have not even reached this milestone yet. In a time when there is, as always, so much work to do in the social justice sphere, the GEU turns 20 this year. With all the work that has to be done, we will also celebrate this occasion this year, with one celebration already under our belt.

Human Rights: Screen to Student Pg.9

As part of our inevitable changes, this issue of IMBEWU will be my last at the helm as editor. My sincerest thanks to every writer and contributor, and especially to the volunteers and staff at the Gender Equity Unit, and our external stakeholders. My hope and belief is that this publication, as well as the intentions of the GEU, will continue to grow in the spirit of activism, equity and education.

Aluta Continua! Always spread the seed of consciousness.

WORDS 4 WOMEN A Review Pg.10 Gallery: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 External Stakeholders Pg.18-19

Jerome Cornelius Editor

Amidst the 20th anniversary celebrations for the Gender Equity Unit (GEU), Mary Hames, director of the GEU, shared the story of her time at Unit.

Hames spoke about the history of the Unit, and mentioned how before its formation in 1993, conversations for an organisation like the GEU started as early as 1985. The Unit had three phases; the policy formulation, making laws tangible and finally implementing those laws. She took me through some of the challenges experienced by women and remembers the limited job positions available for women, how they were not paid fairly and how medical aid was inaccessible to women.

The Unit addressed women’s laws around “issues” such as pregnancy, and how women were not permitted maternity leave. This was, and continues to be, a place for people to address issues of social justice. It was not long before students wanted to get involved.

It was realised that students also faced simi-

lar challenges and there was no place for them to report crimes based on gender and sexuality. The Unit developed from these pressing issues and grew into a safe space for all individuals.

When Hames joined the Unit in 1999, during its second phase, it focused on making laws tangible such as the sexual harassment policy, non-sexist language policy, and the gender policy. Her goal was to simply “raise consciousness” and for students to be aware of what was happening around them.

Hames believes that change begins with the person and what she’s most proud of is that many of the programmes within the Unit were started by students themselves. It is clear that she does not take full credit for the achievements accomplished by the Unit and believes that it should be a shared accomplishment.

As a progressive society, one could ask the following questions: Are these organisations, such as the Unit, still relevant? Do we

still need places like the Unit in 2013?

Hames made it clear that we still need the Unit in 2013 and there aren’t enough places like the Unit that addresses issues of which many people are afraid of speaking. She goes on to say that the Unit is not only a platform for addressing societal concerns, but also a place where leadership is developed and encouraged.

When asked about what sort of legacy she would like to leave behind, Hames said “wisdom”. She wants to share her wisdom with the students and hopefully they would carry on with the work. She wants a collaborative framework within the Unit.

When the work of the GEU is questioned, one needs look no further than the crime rates of gender- and sexuality-based crimes in South Africa. With dedicated activists like Mary Hames, we are at least assured that the fight for equity will continue.

By Chuma Fani

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

3

The Gender Equity Unit (GEU) celebrated its 20th Anniversary at the Centre for the Performing Arts, University of the Western Cape. The themes for the event were ‘appreciation and gratitude’, dedicated to all external stakeholders, University departments and student volunteers that assisted the Unit and contributed to its growth through the 20 years of creative activism.

The event was a glamorous setting as those attending paraded around in smart casuals and in glorious gowns and chic pieces, and certainly not forgetting the ushers of the event who were formally dressed in attire, efficiently attended to the guests’ needs.

Indeed, time and energy was invested into the build-up of this event. The Recital Hall at the Performing Arts was transformed to fit to the occasion in mature elegant décor that was simple yet tasteful in colour and lighting. Imbali, an Afro-soul and Jazz band, was the centrepiece of sultry and soulful entertainment throughout the event, but not serving as the only entertainment. The GEU’s own Edu-Drama Programme gave the audience an informative and amazing insight of what they could expect in their then upcoming production, WORDS 4 WOMEN, bringing poetic items and an African flair to the room. Thozama Mabusela performing a poised and enchanting dance, as well as Madge du Preez, whom celebrated her birthday that same day, performing three profound poetic pieces in which one was

The event was attended by the likes of the University’s Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Brian O’Connell who was the first speaker of the event. He was followed by

Professor Brian O’Connell opening the 20th Anniversary Appreciation Ceremony

the Director of the Gender Equity Unit, Mary Hames, and the head of the Women and Gender studies department, Professor Desiree Lewis, whom enlightened everyone on the historical overview of the Unit. Sentiments of gratitude and appreciation of partnership was shared by Western Cape Network on Disability chairperson, Vincent Daniels and the University’s Risk and Compliance liaison officer, Clint Prins.

Mary Hames and Professor Desiree Lewis enlightening everyone on the historical overview of the GEU Madge du Preez performing her profound poetry

dedicated to the GEU for its consistent growth. The first master of ceremonies was a duet hosted by Reneé Titus and Jerome Cornelius, both volunteers of the LoudEnuf programme within the Unit for nearly five years, welcomed the guests and the speakers with exuberance for the ceremony.

4

The award ceremony consisted of two categories, firstly one for the external stakeholders, some whom assisted the Gender Equity Unit from its early stages of development, and secondly, one for the volunteers of the various programmes, and staff that fall under the Unit.

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

The celebration addressed the history of the Gender Equity Unit and how it came into existence, starting merely with one voice turning into many, forming the organisation on what it is today. As Professor Brian O’Connell stated, “We created the concept of humanity” and the Gender Equity Unit has a deep understanding of humanity, not only by creating awareness on issues that are still considered taboo in communities, but protecting the rights of women and gender concerning sexual orientation and gender identity especially on campus.

The speakers that were given the platform to address the guests were from various organisations, but who once fell under the unit during their academic career at the University of the Western Cape. They exchanged the challenges they faced for either being discriminated against in society or for supporting an initiative that protected the rights of those who did not conform to the normative society. Sharing their experiences under the unit on how they have developed, enriched and empowered themselves and made it their responsibility to educate others outside campus.

Many a volunteer, both new and old, would say that joining the Gender Equity Unit was the start of discovering their purpose and learning not only about the issues that occur in everyday society, but also learning about oneself. As mentioned earlier on about the sense of humanity that can be defined as the life support of the Unit, it is that sense that brings about respect in all forms and the desire to spread the truth and educate, bringing communities together building them as one. This celebration highlighted it all, and in their two decades of growth they have achieved so much, and aim to achieve many more with the support of their external organisations, the University of the Western Cape departments and especially the volunteers and students of the university.

By Limpho Makapela (See page 11 for images)

The Gender Equity Unit (GEU) turns 20 years old this year and just like any 20-yearold, it did not hold back with its first celebrative discussion, held at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Volunteers from the GEU showed up at UCT and took part in the event, which was themed Sex and SexualityDoes Gender Matter?

Chanell Oliphant performing an excerpt from Reclaiming the P… Word

The event started off with performances from GEU volunteers Chanell Oliphant and Bianca Van Rooi, who did excerpts from Reclaiming the P…Word.

fend for themselves” and that she is not a “little girl”. Another disagreed and said that she doesn’t enjoy being called a woman because she felt “limited”. Said another participant, “I get judged for listening to hip hop or loving basketball”

“How do I as a Zulu woman express my feminism without disrespecting my culture?”

There was a great deal of discussion about the inequalities between the sexes, particularly with taboo topics such as masturbation. One participant asked if one would question a man speaking about this topic, while condemning the woman who does the same. This point tied in to the discussion about un-gendering, is it possible to ungender? Un-gendering has to do with one preferring not to call themselves male or female but just a human being. Is It Possible?

One quote that stands out for me, as a writer, is from the book remember rapture: the writer at work from renowned feminist, bell hooks: “No black woman writer in this culture can write “too much”. Indeed, no woman writer can write “too much”...No woman has ever written enough.”

Race and Class — Does Gender Matter? followed with the support of Human Sciences Research Council, the discussion raised issues on intersections of race, class and gender. The discussion provided a space for engagement on the intricacies of race and class and the intersection of gender.

Ayabonga Pasiya during her performance of WORDS 4 WOMEN

Mary Hames opening the discussion of Sex and Sexuality — Does Gender Matter?

Mary Hames, Director of the GEU, opened up the discussion with the aforementioned topic. It did not take long before intense discussions started about sex and homosexuality. One of the discussions was about whether being a woman makes one stronger and less vulnerable. This point was raised by one of the participants who made it clear that she wants to be seen as a woman because women “demand respect, they can

Wahseema Roberts, Kolosa Qomoyi and A-J Castle during their performance WORDS 4 WOMEN, performed at the Mind Your Language discussion

A striking point was made by a female participant who asked, “How do I as a Zulu woman express my feminism without disrespecting my culture?” It took me a while before I could answer this question myself, because I’ve also struggled with this. However, what I have learned from that night is that feminism is not about disrespect for culture, religion or males, but rather it’s about being proud of being a woman and embracing it.

The Mind Your Language difficult conversations took place at the District Six Homecoming Museum. The conversation focused on how the media plays a role on the perception of women in society; how language is used to further victimise and disempower women. The members of Edu-Drama performed a piece titled “WORDS 4 WOMEN” as an opening to the discussion.

The difficult conversation series was in celebration of the Gender Equity Unit’s 20th anniversary and also wanted to raise awareness on issues that are not given the necessary platforms.

By Chuma Fani (See page 13 for images)

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

5

On the 26TH of February 2013 Women’s and Gender Studies (WGS) department and Gender Equity Unit (GEU) together with the Rector’s office invited the University of the Western Cape community to come together to “Stop the violence and take responsibility”. This important event initially was intended for the UWC community to respond to the Anene Booysen brutal rape and murder. However, WGS and GEU made an effort to include and commemorate not only Anene Booysen, but many other women who were raped and killed, who never got the public attention, or even to report their cases to the authorities or those who did report, but were never taken seriously enough to be investigated.

Anene Booysen was a 17 year-old female who was found by a security guard in the morning after she had not only been gang raped, but also her body mutilated at a construction site in Bredasdorp. She died after 6 hours and named one of her attackers who, surprisingly, was her ex-boyfriend.

Her story was one of the many poignant and heartbreaking stories of women who are severely injured or die due to psychological, physical and social scars perpetrated by their attackers. Almost on a daily basis, we are overwhelmed by reports on violent crimes, in many cases on gender-based violence, yet we rarely get to see justice taking its course. Rather it has become routine to hear about bail applications after a trial.

Beside the homogenous representation of these everyday reports on black women as being the victims, it is increasingly becoming a culture for the media to jump from one story to another. Unfortunately, these kinds of “unfinished” narratives create stereotypes about black women as victims of not only violence but also of social injustice, as voiceless human beings, as ‘fair game’ not only to the offenders, but also to those who make a career out of these women’s sufferings. What is more concerning is when compared to other African countries, South Africa has good legislation in place; yet the everyday experiences of many women living in the country are completely the opposite.

The opening of the event happened dramat-

6

ically and unexpectedly with S.A.S.C.O. members making a grand entrance by singing as they entered the hall. The words were emotionally piercing and struck a code amongst the students who joined in enthusiastically. Among the songs sung by these young men and women, what stood out for us was the “Wathinta thina wathinti’mbokodo” which means that “if you strike a woman, you would have struck a rock”. The song represented the solidarity and common vested interest of everyone who was present in the event to mark the beginning of the event. It was overwhelming and motivating at the same time to witness students determination to fight against rape and gender based violence. Immediately after this emotional protest, Prof. Brian O'Connell — Rector and Vice-Chancellor made an opening speech about this initiative and his personal dealings of violence against women as a father. He then opened the floor for the panel discussion.

Chanell Oliphant presenting the current statistics.

Prof Brian O’Connell, Mary Hames, Dr Yvette Abrahams, Prof Desiree Lewis and Maria van Staden.

Desiree Lewis, Head of Department of Women’s and Gender Studies, spoke about a “continuum” in relation to gender-based violence, she invited the audience to draw their attention and rethinking how we all encounter violence on everyday basis yet how we never give conscious attention to it unless it is somehow sensationalised by the media. Furthermore, Maria van Staden, Programme Coordinator of Gender Equity Unit, and students Tigist Shewarega Hussen, Bianca Van Rooi and Scholastica Ntoyanto generally spoke about challenges of tackling violence against women in our home, communities and organisations in contemporary South Africa.

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

We were particularly interested in Scholastica Ntoyanto’s presentation of “fear” - how scared she is living in the campus residence.

Our typical interest and reflection is on how the audience responded to her narratives, especially towards the end when she said that she was even scared to trust the residence security guards. People were laughing as if it was not a legitimate concern. The question is then, if most perpetrators of rape and violence are close families, friends and partners, then how is it possible for a woman to feel safe with men that she considered as complete strangers. It is even becoming very worrying to trust law enforcing agents as they are increasingly making headlines with their brutality instead of their service to protect citizens. If the law fails to overpower this endemic, if the media works only in sensationalism, if rape and violence against women are taken as women’s struggle as opposed to the nation as a whole, then who will protect women in South Africa?

After the panel discussion, as a way forward, the GEU provided a pledge to be signed by students who wanted to take part in this social movement. This was an initiative to make sure that the attendants of this event take action against gender based violence in their communities and surroundings. Most importantly, it ensured that the effectiveness of this event had continuity and not just concluded as the day ended. It was important for individuals to locate themselves as an “agent of change” and write their commitment to speak out against gender based violence. At this particular time and space, “collective effort” was experienced across different class, age, race and ethnicity. Each person’s presence was felt; the UWC community in general promised to urgently take action to stop this crisis in the country.

By Tigist Hussen and Elinah Mapfumo (See page 12 for images)

With an ever-present array of issues to address in the fight for social justice, it is always comforting to know that there are others fighting the same fight.

Surya Monro, a scholar who visited South Africa recently, spoke to Imbewu about her work.

al, organisations supporting events such as Black Pride and race awareness training taking place in the bisexual community’

...some types of crime get more coverage in the media than others, with “gender, class and even attractiveness” playing a role.

Perhaps a lesson could be learned for South Africa with its recent spate of extreme fragmentation in the LGBTQI community. She did acknowledge that homophobia is more prevalent in certain minorities, and that the “trans movement is extremely white in the The problem of volume on cer- UK”. tain issues cropped up during this Incidentally, at the time of Monconversation as topics ranged ro’s visit, the world was still in from homophobia to the “trans shock at the brutal gang rape and movement”, with the always diffimurder in Dehli, India of Jyoti cult task of not letting these isSingh, and more recently in sues fall at the wayside for South Africa of Anene Booysen. “bigger” issues. While her work is These high profile cases highmostly focused on LGBTQI and lighted the importance of awaretransgender rights, Monro said ness of gender-based violence. that the issues of femicide and Monro spoke of “patterns of inefemale genital mutilation are quality”, but believed there are extremely significant because of shifts occurring. However, she the extent to which they violate said that in the UK as it does in basic human rights.

SA, some types of crime get more Recognising the difference be- coverage in the media than othtween South Africa and the UK, ers, with “gender, class and even Monro highlighted both positive attractiveness” playing a role. aspects, as well as the faults in Her reassuring final words were both countries. While economic an affirmation for the gender and racial divisions do exist, one movement, especially in this aspect which has proven rather country, as she spoke of intersecprogressive in the UK is the Gentionality between race and sexuder Recognition Act 2004, which ality. Said Monro, just because gives transsexual people full someone has a unique, or “more recognition and rights as citizens. marginalising experience, doesn’t ‘In her work, Monro has ob- mean they do not have agency”. served positive developments,

By Jerome Cornelius with lesbian and gay, and bisexu-

Sitting in her office at the Gender Equity Unit, eating dhal on a cold day, Shelley Barry shared some insights to herself and her work.

As the Filmmaker in Residence at UWC, Barry was commissioned by the Gender Equity Unit to produce a documentary on the history of its LGBTIAQ programme, LoudEnuf, during the first semester of 2013, she taught a film course in producing a documentary. As the complete antithesis to mainstream society’s ideal, Barry embodies many minorities, namely female, lesbian, person of colour and a person with a disability. Shelley sees herself as an artist who engages with the world creatively. However, as a writer and poet, film is her core passion.

As a supposed minority, however, she sees her position as a place of power, and not a weakness. She believes that it is important to get work out there, “or you get silenced”. She was not always as empowered as she is now, as she says that she first felt sorry for herself when she was shot as a

She calls her work “arts activism” and believes that it is important to take responsibility of one’s life...

Barry describes a good film as real and honest and that one should be able to “sense the truth” in it, she believes that one should speak out in whatever form. She calls her work “arts activism” and believes that it is important to take responsibility for one’s life, because “people get educated just by being around you”.

Her short time as a filmmaker and teacher at UWC has been “amazing so far”, but she believes that it will take a couple of years for a functional film unit to be established. The vision, however, has started.

Her upcoming plans include a Ph.D. and films in development include her new documentary, “Mr Shakes” soon to be screened at the Encounters film festival, and a new project about South African poet, James Matthews.

Finally, when asked about how she chooses her projects, Shelley bystander in the taxi wars in concluded in typical artistic, yet 1996. As a 23 year old able- inspirational style: “The film will bodied person, she had not come to me”. thought about her status before.

Seeing the world through a different lens, life in a wheelchair By Jerome Cornelius was “like entering a parallel universe, the world is the same, but different”.

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

7

The Gender Equity Unit (GEU) hosted its annual Human Rights Film Festival in commemoration of Human Rights Day. The film festival stretched over a period of three days starting on 25 March 2013.

The film festival not only provides a platform to showcase short South African films, but it allows the GEU’s Food Programme to collect non-perishable food products from the spectators and donate it to students on campus to help enhance their education.

Shelley's story is one of hope and encouragement, because instead of living a life of resentment and hate towards her perpetrator, she embraced her new form and relied on faith to comfort her. Shelley was also in attendance and described her life as a miracle.

Like so many unsung heroes, he was oppressed by the Apartheid regime, left voiceless and thus The opening night was held at Chris Hani Residence where we were entertained with live music. Kurt Orderson’s “Breathe Again” was the first film screened which portrayed the life of his uncle, Derrick Orderson, a former world-record contending swimmer who was prevented from representing South Africa on the world stage because he was a ‘coloured’ man.

Shelley Barry declaring: “Disability Rights are Human Rights!”

The final film I attended was “Whisper Not” by Derick Fine, a new and fresh outlook of various people living with HIV and AIDS. His film documented the experiences and obstacles of each of his interviewees living with the disease. It’s a motivating and encouraging documentary that could inspire millions of people to embrace people living with HIV and AIDS, and to stop the stigma attached to the disease. The film has also created a platform for people living with the disease to speak out about it and to seek help on how to manage and live with the disease. We embarked on a discussion with Derick after the screening about the interviewees and what he could gather from the experience.

Derrick Orderson engaging with the audience at the screening of Breathe Again

Like so many unsung heroes, he was oppressed by the Apartheid regime, left voiceless and thus unable to gain full recognition for his talents. Kurt Orderson captures the beauty of his uncle's multiple record-breaking success, his struggles, personal life as well as his role and achievements within society. We were fortunate to have Kurt and Derrick Orderson, his former coach and the GEU's director Mary Hames in attendance. They answered questions from the spectators and gave insights on various topics as well.

Another great film, “Whole- A Trinity of Being” by Shelley Barry, is an emotionally gripping and poetic film about how Barry was paralysed and left voiceless for a period of time due to a shooting.

8

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

Derick Fine presenting his book Clouds Move at the final screening

The Human Rights Film Festival is not only about watching short South African films, but living it and embracing the meaning of each film. It teaches us about life that’s ‘out there’ and, like the experiences of the filmmakers, raises awareness about the past and what many had to go through, and how they overcame their obstacles.

By Robin-lea Karating (See page 13 for images)

Various student organisations at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) celebrated an awareness week leading up to the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), which takes place every year on the 17th May.

students who supported the IDAHOT initiative. Together, these students celebrated a week of human-rights activism.

Did you know?

On 9 October 2012, UWC became the first university in the world to fly a national, officially recognised, LGBTI flag, when the Gender Equity Unit hoisted it at its annual LGBTI awareness week.

The 15th of May commenced with a cultural display of the performing arts. There were singers, rappers and poets of alternative genders and sexual preferences. The evening of the same day welcomed Cape Town social justice activist, Zackie Achmat, who provided an insightful lecture on the stigma associated with the LGBTI community and the way forward to remove the very stigma. An LGBTI introductory workshop took place on the 16th of May, facilitated by Triangle Project, and was followed by a debate on whether UWC is doing enough for the concerns of its LGBTI community.

LoudEnuf and Gayla members after having hoisted the LGBTI flag at UWC

This day raises awareness concerning discrimination and violence, on the ground of sexual orientation, by all persons, organisations and governments. IDAHOT seeks to limit the occurrence of hate crimes, crippling legislation and exclusivity associated with sexual orientation. IDAHOT commenced in 2004 to highlight the challenges faced by the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual and Intersex (LGBTI) community. In addition, the 17th of May is a significant day, as the World Health Organisation (WHO) removed homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses on the 17th May 1990.

LoudEnuf and Gayla members during the IDAHOT march, 17 May 2013

The awareness week ended on the 17th of May (IDAHOT) with a colourful mass march, starting the Gender Equity Unit (GEU), around the UWC campus. Students from all over the campus joined along the way, chanting human rights phrases, whilst holding colourful banners, until they proceeded to their destination, UWC’s Main Hall.

The day concluded with a delightful pageant at the African Routes Café on the campus. Drag kings and queens displayed their diversity as they modelled the ramp. Guest performers at the pageant included, Imbali, an Afro-soul and jazz band; jazz vocalist, Lee-Ashton Buckton; and contemporary vocalist, Travino Lotz.

Zackie Achmat addressing the audience on the importance of ‘Intersectionality’

GEU’s Volunteer Programme, LoudEnuf, and Student organisation, Gayla, (both LGBTI activist bodies) were among the many students involved during the awareness week. LoudEnuf and Gayla were accompanied by UWC residence students, as well as many campus

Therefore, UWC’s IDAHOT awareness week successfully fulfilled the main aims of the IDAHOT, critically to raise awareness on the rights of the LGBTI community and to revel in diversity.

By Nathan-Ross Adams (See page 15 for images) Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

9

While the themes may be complex, “I am woman, and I go by no other name”

the

message

is

simple:

WORDS 4 WOMEN is the latest in a series of Edu-Dramas. This platform was started as a way to tell these stories from a personal point of view, in an artistic way, which could be viewed as activism through performance.

The first Edu-Drama was the acclaimed Reclaiming the P… Word, in which monologues were used to convey the stories of black women, to reclaim that word that is rightfully theirs. Khululekani Emakyaha was the next production which dealt with the subject of home and women owning these spaces. Reclaiming Body, Reclaiming Self was the 2012 National Arts Festival Merit Award winner, continuing the tradition with stories of black women reclaiming their bodies, both physically and figuratively.

Earlier this year the cast of WORDS 4 WOMEN returned from the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown and performed at the Fresh from Fest festival at the University of Cape Town’s Hiddingh Campus in Cape Town.

With no wings, the stage was bare, save for three chairs. This encroaching space, with a high ceiling, seemed to dominate its subjects, an all-female cast. However, this space was to become one of empowerment and freedom, in which the voice was found and encouraged.

The cast was already in place when we entered the theatre, each dressed in black with a different coloured scarf. I found this striking, as it seemed to convey the fact that these women are all the same, or rather from the same source, yet unique in their own. With the voice being central to this production, a stand-out line mentioned how they are “rewriting histories” which was being done by writing, and voicing their presents.

Words 4 Women used sound and motion to create a primordial soup setting in which monologues, dancing, singing and drama emerged out of nowhere to form segments that were all melded together as one. This play was, in a sense, a 50 minute affirmation to women.

women, and a mirror for the rest of us. With these stories, society is forced to sit up and pay attention. When we are confronted, we can no longer turn away and pretend we did not hear. Two moments stood out here. One was when the male voice was represented, in which the idea of men as the strong sex gets subverted. “Maxi pads for men” was a mock live commercial send-up which got the most laughs out of the audience.

Making fun of men as the ones who now get their period and have to face the tricky consequences of having to borrow a pad from a friend, showed exactly how these women were in control of the subject matter and the stage. It also afforded some of the lighter moments for such heavy subject matter.

There were stand-out performances by all, however my favourite moments were the tribute to female heroes, such as Miriam Makeba, to the tune of a struggle toyi-toyi song. Ayabonga Pasiya belted out this song with a voice so strong, that it reverberated through the theatre.

Oneza Nofemela also stood out with her size (very small) out of synch with her talent (very big) and how that defied the idea of someone physically small being weak. My favourite segment was the one in which Nofemela was a patient at a psychologist and speaking about her issues. The rest of the cast played the voices in her head, which were conflicting, as she was conflicted. The voices which are meant to be empowering, now became a challenge. But in the end, with the insistence of the psychologist’s refrain of “But how does that make you FEEL?” she broke free with the powerful “They don’t make me feel”.

This production taught me, once again, the importance of telling our own stories – because if you don’t do it, no one else will. To claim the voice and to go by no other name than the one you give yourself is what I took from this piece. I hope that all women, black and otherwise, will realise the values in a production such as this and treasure what is theirs.

By Jerome Cornelius

(See page 14 for images)

The ameliorative element was stark as the cast became conduits for many WORDS 4 WOMEN

Reclaiming Body, Reclaiming Self

This production plays with a variety of stereotypes and the effect is a celebration of women and their bodies. The young student cast uses words and actions to bring powerful and celebratory meaning to words that are often use to demean and oppress women. Through their performance they call on new interpretations of the words in the different languages. They play, they provoke and they take the audience on a journey of self-reflection. This is one of those productions that make you want more.

This play deals with the multiple struggles that young Black women are facing in the post-1994 South Africa. It speaks out against stereotypes, conservative society, religion and oppressive body politics. It questions the contradictions in the socalled land of freedom(s)

Original Cast: Kolosa Qomoyi, Andisiwe Mpu, Ayabonga Pasiya, Bianca van Rooi, Oneza Nofemela, Sixolile Kula, and Ziyanda Daniel Directors: Wahseema Roberts and A-J Castle Producer: Mary Hames First performed: 2013

10

Original Cast: Ziyanda Daniel, Bianca van Rooi, Chanell Oliphant, Kolosa Qomoyi, Lelethu Busakwe, Nolukhanyo Thomas, Sibongisiwe Sibeko and Yolanda Mahlathini Directors: Sherna Botto, Wahseema Roberts, and A-J Castle Producer: Mary Hames First performed: 2012

Khululekani Emakhaya

Reclaiming The P... Word

English interpretation of ‘khululekani emakhaya’ is ‘be free in your homes’.

The production focuses on different ways of liberating this ‘place called home’. The play invites everybody to share in the imagining and shaping of ‘home’ and questions the interpretation of slogans such as ‘a home for all’ or ‘home away from home’.

The endemic violence against women and girl children in post-1994 South Africa comes under the spotlight in this hard-hitting social commentary. It forces the audience to examine their own perceptions or experiences of gender-based violence. The production confront misogyny and gendered powerlessness and then turns it around with humour and strength. Young women reclaim their bodies and agency. It is powerful and unapologetic!

Original Cast: Althea Matthews, Jolyn Phillips, Neliswa Mahlangabeza, Sibongisiwe Sibeko, Sinethemba Chole, Tapiwa Mazvimavi, and Thulisa Dunga

Original Cast: Mary Hames, A-J Castle, Carmen Hartze Dawn Bosman, Desiree Lewis, Esley Philander, Johanna Booysen, Juliana Davids, Maki Makone, and Wahseema Roberts

Director: D’bi Young Producer: Mary Hames First performed: 2011

Director: Elizabeth Stockland Producer: Mary Hames First performed: 2006

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

Gender Equity Unit’s 20th Anniversary Appreciation Ceremony

Hosted by Gender Equity Unit 20 July 2013 Photographs courtesy of Ben van Staden and Institutional Advancement

APPRECIATION CEREMONY

Ameera Baker Jerome Cornelius

Reneé Titus

Liansky Bestenbier

(Risk & Compliance)

Prof Brian O’Connell

Prof Desiree Lewis

(SASL Interpreter)

Madge du Preez

Tremaine Bam

(WC Network on Disability)

Women & Gender Studies

Deaf Federation of SA

Risk & Compliance

Sibongisiwe Sibeko

Jabulani Bennedict Leteane

Clint Prins

WC Network on Disability

UWC Performing Arts

Vincent Daniels

Reneé Titus

Wahseema Roberts

Bianca van Rooi

Thozama Mabusela

Imbali

Mary Hames

WORDS 4 WOMEN Cast

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

11

Stop The Violence: I Take Responsibility!

Hosted by: Gender Equity Unit and Women’s & Gender Studies Department 26 February 2013 Photographs courtesy of Institutional Advancement

STOP THE VIOLENCE

12

Mary Hames

Prof Brian O’Connell

Tigist Hussen

Elinah Mapfumo & Imbali

Scholastica Ntoyanto

Sibongisiwe Sibeko & Chanell Oliphant

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

Lauren Fortuin

Diana Ferris

Yaliwe Clarke

Bianca van Rooi

Chanell Oliphant

DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS Difficult Conversation Series Hosted by Gender Equity Unit Supported by African Gender Institute, Human Sciences Research Council, District Six Museum Homecoming Centre 12 March, 13 May & 15 August 2013 Photographs courtesy of African Gender Institute

Derrick Orderson

Kurt Orderson & Mary Hames

HUMAN RIGHTS FILM FESTIVAL Derick Fine

Human Rights Film Festival 2013 Hosted by Gender Equity Unit’s Food Programme Supported by UWC Cares 25-27 March 2013

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

13

Ziyanda Daniel

WORDS 4 WOMEN NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

Bianca van Rooi

Oneza Nofemela

Ayabonga Pasiya

Sixolile Kula

WORDS 4 WOMEN performance Hosted by the National Arts Festival Performed by: Gender Equity Unit’s Edu-Drama Programme 2-5 July 2013

Photographs courtesy of Marius J van Rensburg

Andisiwe Mpu

Roché Kester

Ziyanda Daniel

Bianca van Rooi

Lelethu Busekwa

Chanell Oliphant

Scholastica Ntoyanto

Lauren Fortuin

Kolosa ‘Koko’ Qomoyi

Nolukhanyo Thomas

RECLAIMING THE P… WORD

UWC PERFORMANCE Reclaiming The P… Word performance Hosted and Performed by: Gender Equity Unit’s Edu-Drama Programme 14 February 2013 Photographs courtesy of Lynn Seale

14

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

Mary Hames & Zackie Achmat

IDAHOT

Jonathan Jamisca Hoffman

Student Support Services, Risk & Compliance, and Central House Committee

IDAHOT Awareness Week 2013 Hosted by LoudEnuf and Gayla-UWC Supported by: Cecil Esau Residence and Pro Events 14-17 May 2013

Before I went to Pride I did some research on it and I found out that Pride started off as a political movement to get the government’s attention and to celebrate homosexuality. What made me excited was seeing so many people who supported the LGBTI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex) community, I felt so free there. It was definitely an experience that I will never forget.

By Xolani Kona

Cape Town LGBTI Pride Parade 2013 Attended by LoudEnuf, and Gayla-UWC 2 March 2013

CAPE TOWN PRIDE

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

15

Glenton Matthyse

ICORE AT CTSB

Oneza Nofemela

Sedick Jordan

iCore Awareness Raising Event Hosted by Cape Town Society for the Blind Attended by: Gender Equity Unit’s HumaNature Programme 19 March 2013

SASL SESSIONS

Limpho Makapela

Charné Botha

Jabaar Mohamed

Kwabena Awuah

Bianca van Rooi

Leacretia Petersen

Ruduwaan Myburgh

South African Sign Language Education Sessions Hosted by Jabaar Cassiem Mohamed Attended by: Gender Equity Unit’s HumaNature Programme 2013 Academic year

16

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

Angelo Fortuin

UWC STUDENT ORIENTATION UWC Student Orientation Hosted by the University of the Western Cape 16-25 January 2013 Photographs courtesy of Brandon Clark

UWC OPEN DAY UWC Open Day Hosted by the University of the Western Cape 11 May 2013

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

17

Action Volunteers Africa Mission: Place school leaving South Africans into volunteer action postings in reputable NGO’s for six months to a year. Recruits gain tangible skills and practical working experience and help build communities.

CapeNature Cape Town Society for the Blind

Mission: A quality driven public entity conserving the unique natural heritage resources of the Western Cape for the benefit of all..

Mission: Develop the abilities and skills of Blind and Visually Impaired Persons, irrespective of age, colour or creed, through innovative training, job development and job placement programmes that facilitate the creation of self confidence as well as economic independence.

ChildSafe Deaf Federation of South Africa Mission: A fully functional Deaf community with equality in society, empowered to utilitse opportunities in order to create and sustain a high quality of life.

Mission: Promote optimal health and development of all children in South Africa, aiming to reduce and prevent intentional and unintentional injuries of all severity through research, education, environmental change and recommendations for legislation.

Encounters South African International Documentary Film Festival

Epilepsy South Africa Mission: A dynamic organisation providing development services nationally to promote equal opportunities for people with epilepsy and other disabilities.

Gender Dynamix

Free Gender

Mission: Support transgender people to access and advocate for their rights; increase awareness and visibility of transgender people in South Africa; promote freedom of expression of gender identity; focusing on transgender transsexual and other gender non-conforming people.

Mission: To oppose all forms of violence and hate speech, and developing a safe space and promoting the of the LGBTI community in Khayelitsha.

Good Hope Metropolitan Community Church Mission: To spread the love of God in an affirmative and inclusive manner to all people of our community and beyond, regardless of gender, race, language, culture or sexual orientation.

Human Sciences Research Council Mission: Conduct large0scale, policy0relevant, social-scientific projects for public-sector users, non-governmental organisations and international development agencies.

18

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

Inclusive & Affirming Ministries Mission: Work as a catalyst within the mainstream churches towards full inclusion of LGBTI people.

Intersex South Africa Mission: Spread knowledge about intersex, to provide the space for the development of an intersex voice in Southern Africa, and to combat discrimination on grounds of intersex..

The Inner Circle Mission: Empower and raise consciousness around gender and sexual diversity by engaging faiths and beliefs, encouraging independent reasoning and collaboration, especially with Muslims who are queer and the local, national and internal Muslim community.

The Mothers’ Union Mission: Transformation of communities worldwide, through the promotion of stable marriage, family life and the protection of children.

National Arts Festival Mission: Providing platforms for drama, dance, physical theatre, comedy, opera, music, jazz, visual art exhibitions, film, craft fair, open to all regardless of race, colour, sex or creed. A celebration of the arts on the African continent.

Openly Positive Mission: Encourage open living with HIV by sharing our stories as people living with and deeply affected by HIV. Be visible role models in promoting positive living and stigma-free language in writing and talking about HIV and AIDS. Work for equality, non-discrimination and active participation of people living with HIV in policies and programmes affecting us.

Out In Africa South African Gay & Lesbian Film Festival

People Against Suffering, Oppression, and Poverty Mission: Protecting and lobbying for the rights of asylum seekers, refugees and immigrants in South Africa.

The Pink Tongue Mission: Challenge homophobia by embracing homosexuality and by promoting gay lives and lifestyles in the normal, decent and honest way in which they are lived. As a community newspaper, it reflects and reports on the doings, happenings, achievements and celebrations within the gay community as well as situations that directly affect us.

PRO Events Security Mission: Provide security services for major corporate functions, exhibitions, private functions, and sporting events.

Sign Language Education & Development Mission: Facilitate the Deaf child’s equal and democratic right to literacy and learning through the promotion of South African Sign Language.

Sonke Gender Justice Network Mission: Strengthen government, civil society and citizen capacity to support men and boys in taking action to promote gender equality, prevent domestic and sexual violence, and reduce the spread and impact of HIV and AIDS.

Western Cape Network on Disability

Triangle Project Mission: Contribute towards eradicating discrimination against and within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex (LGBTI) community until they are no longer required.

Mission: Encourage and influence all to adopt and actively implement legislation, policies, programmes and practices that afford equal rights, opportunities, participation and quality of life for all individual with disabilities, and to regularly monitor and promote and adherence to such.

Gender Equity Unit 20th Anniversary • IMBEWU • Issue 5

19

Edu-Drama Programme Established in 2006 Introduces us to the women behind statistics of violence against women, providing a platform for education through drama.

IMBEWU Gender Equity Unit Student Newsletter Iss ue 5 | N ov em b er 2 0 1 3 Phone 021 959 2812 Fax 021 959 3232 Email gender@uwc.ac.za

LoudEnuf Established in 2006 Engaging on issues such as gender, gender identity, sexuality and sexual orientation. Seeking LGBTI inclusion and power, not prejudice.

Food Programme Established in 2007 The primary objective is to alleviate the problem of hunger faced by UWC students and to promote education.

HumaNature Established in 2007 Raising awareness and providing education on disa-

bility, using tools such as accessible trail assessments and South African Sign Language information sessions.

Mentoring Programme Established in 2009 Committed student volunteers mentoring school learners, via community-based organizations from surrounding areas. Providing friendship, guidance, support and becoming role models.

Gender Equity Unit University of the Western Cape c/o Robert Sobukwe Rd & Symphony Way, Bellville, 7535