Women and Inequality in a Changing World: Exploring New Paradigms for Peace Read Along
The first chapter of the new edited volume is titled “Historical Antecedents: African American Women’s Enduring Commitment to an Intersectional Peace” by Brandy Thomas Wells.
https://www.routledge.com/Women-and-Inequality-in-a-Changing-World-Exploring-New-Paradigms-for-Peace/Mahmoudi-Parpart-Seaman/p/book/9781032250649
This chapter serves as a powerful testament to the dedication of African-American women to the pursuit of peace and justice, shedding light on their pivotal role in shaping the discourse on intersectional peace.
Wells' historical examination emphasizes the tenacity of African-American female peace activists across different eras, from the early women’s peace organizations to contemporary bodies such as the Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security & Conflict Transformation (WCAPS). Wells highlights the contributions of remarkable figures such as Mary Church Terrell, Mary Burnett Talbert, and Addie Waites Hunton, who, alongside Jane Addams, played instrumental roles in advocating for peace and challenging the prevailing inequalities of their time.
A noteworthy aspect of this chapter is its focus on the intersectional nature of peace activism. It shows how Black women have consistently insisted on the centrality of justice, freedom, and equality in their pursuit of peace, intertwining their advocacy with broader social justice movements. Wells also sheds light on the challenges faced by Black female peace activists, including the disappointments over segregation, racism, and the limited agendas of mainstream peace organizations. Despite these obstacles, their commitment to peace remained unwavering.
Wells highlights the imperative to reframe the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda to encompass a fuller understanding of women's experiences and the multifaceted inequalities and vulnerabilities they encounter. It calls for a reimagining of the WPS agenda that integrates the voices and perspectives of Black women and other women of color, emphasizing that lasting peace is unattainable until injustices are confronted and eradicated.
In conclusion, "Historical Antecedents: African American Women’s Enduring Commitment to an Intersectional Peace" challenges us to embrace a more inclusive and intersectional approach to peace activism that acknowledges and addresses the interconnected nature of inequalities and strives for a more just and equitable world.
About the Author:
Eden is a Graduate Assistant with the Baha’i Chair for World Peace. She is attending the University of Maryland and pursuing a Master of Public Health in Health Care Management. She graduated from the University of Maryland in 2023 with a B.S. in Public Health Science. Her interests are in health disparities and policy.
