The Importance of "Umoja" in the Fight for Gender Equality

Video from abc40 news, wggb.com

By Erin Corbett 

For many around the world, the third Sunday of June (celebratedwidely on other days as well) is a day dedicated to celebrating dad: it’sFathers Day! It’s a day to show fathers how much they are appreciated, whilehonoring and celebrating fatherhood, and the influence of fathers insociety. 

What is especially important to think about is, in fact, thisimmense influence of fathers (and men) in society.  This year, I decided to think about fathers in a globalcontext, particularly their role in the fight for genderequality. 

I reached out to third year Hampshire College student, Elizabeth Wright. Elizabeth is an intern with Burundian based organization, UmojaNow.  The organization works toachieve gender equality and end gender based violence by bringing men and womentogether.  Umoja translates to“unity” from Swahili, a name perfectly suited for this organization as it seeksto fight for gender equality by strengthening the unity between men andwomen.  Umoja Now, with offices inboth Burundi and Western Massachusetts, combines law, policy, social work, anddevelopment to accomplish this mission.

I asked Elizabeth to tell me a little bit more about an eventthat Umoja Now organized to be held this year on Fathers day in Northampton,Massachusetts.

Elizabeth discussed the event, known as One Billion FathersRising, which is organized by, for, and about men working to end violence andabuse in their communities.  Theevent brought together activists, educators, musicians, and dancers, whileraising awareness about the important role of fathers in ending violence andabuse, which is why the event is held on Fathers Day.

Why is it important to engage men and fathers in the fight forgender equality?

Wright explains,

“Equality cannot be accomplished if both genders aren’tinvolved equally. Fathers play a crucial part as role models for their sons anddaughters.”

One Billion Fathers Rising was a success, gaining significantmedia attention.  The manyperformers and speakers attracted locals around Downtown Northampton, whostopped by to listen to the music and speeches and learn more about the work ofUmoja Now. 

It is important to remember, in the fight for gender equalityand ending violence against women, that using “umoja” or unity as a lens pavesthe way to embracing peace.  

Click for more information about Umoja Now.