So training in technology means working with computers, cell phones, cameras - tools that generate creativity. But there is something about paints and paper and creating something collective which generates a different energy and a different creativity. And to me, a feminist practice of technology is facilitating creativity and reflecting on our use of and feelings towards technology.
That's why I'm a feminist...
Singing, dancing, hand mapping, making networks out of string, cutting out paper faces from cardboard and performance pieces where just some of the activities at the South African Feminist Tech eXchange (FTX) held in Cape Town 11 to 14 November 2009. The FTX is part of a larger project of the APC WNSP called “Strengthening Women's Strategic Use of Information and Communications Technologies to Combat Violence Against Women and Girls” which is being implemented in South Africa by Women'sNet.
The diverse group came from all over South Africa and represent university departments, activist organisations, community based groups, township telecentres, feminist groups but all share one struggle – that of combatting gender-based violence. And the FTX aimed to build the capacity of the groups in using ICTs in creative and strategic ways to enhance and support their activism. The workshop also explored, debated and contributed to developing a feminist practice of technology. The Oxfam Canada Women's Rights Advancement Programme (WRAP) partnered with Women'sNet and APC WNSP and supported the participation of their grantees in the WRAP programme.
Posted by Jenny but written by Alice Gelderblom-Waddilove during the South African FTX workshop in Cape Town, November 2009.
I interviewed Nicky from Rape Crisis Cape Town about their ‘1000 Hearts campaign’
-Why did you decide on using social networks to fundraise?
At the end of 2008, Rape Crisis faced a huge financial crisis. Rape Crisis was finding that big companies would rather donate their money to animal or child welfare causes than to a cause like Rape Crisis, because rape is in no way cute, fluffy or pretty. Rape Crisis was also finding that there was good infrustructure within their NGO for big companies to make donations, but if individuals wanted to donate they couldn’t do so with ease.
Defines our approach to training. It outlines the core values that comprise feminist technology training. It is based on the experiences and politics of feminists who train other women to use technologies creatively and strategically.
How do we approach technology as women's rights activists? Where do communication rights fit into women’s movements? How can we reclaim technology for women's empowerment?
The Feminist Tech Exchange, also known as the FTX, was developed in response to calls from feminist and women's rights movements for greater understanding of emerging technologies, their potential and...
Training agenda, presentations, trainers' notes that have been used in our FTX workshops. Definitely useful in planning your our training and your own FTX workshops.
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Tried, tested and true technology resources made for and used by activists and non-profit groups. Guaranteed to make your feminist tech training extra-special.
Fantastic women who know a thing or two (...or more) about appropriating technology for women's rights and empowerment. They have been trainers / facilitators in our FTX workshops.
Unless otherwise stated, content on the FTX website is licenced under CreativeCommons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0
