Further to Crenshaw, A Reaction to Dr Ceridwen Sparks’ 'A Tale of Two Worlds' as a Young Pacific Woman in Development (Part 2)

In the first part of this series, I spoke about Crenshaw and all the emotions evoked, from reading her research and thoughts on identity, race and gender and more. As a young Pacific woman actively engaged in the development sector, someone closer to home was introduced to me as a happy spillover from the Crenshaw references. Dr Ceridwen Sparks' article, "A Tale of Two Worlds," resonated deeply with my own experiences and aspirations. Sparks paints a vivid contrast between the lives of women in different socio-economic environments in Papua New Guinea, revealing the stark inequalities that persist in our modern world. Her insights provide an important lens through which we can examine the unique challenges women face in the Pacific, particularly in the context of development. I wanted to share my thoughts on these - five years later (but hey, a draft must be finalised at some point, right?)

The Dichotomy of Worlds

Sparks’ portrayal of two worlds - one marked by wealth and privilege, the other by struggle and poverty - struck a chord with me. Growing up in various Pacific countries and across different communities, I often witnessed this dichotomy firsthand. While we have made strides in development, many women in our region still grapple with significant barriers to accessing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Sparks’ emphasis on the interconnections between global issues and local realities urges us to critically assess how our development efforts can be more inclusive and effective.

Bridging the Gap through Intersectionality

Sparks’ article aligns with my understanding of intersectionality, an idea championed by Kimberlé Crenshaw. It is essential to recognise that women’s experiences are not monolithic; various identities, including race, class, and geography, shape them. In the Pacific, the added layer of cultural expectations complicates our narratives. For instance, women from marginalized communities often face multiple forms of discrimination that hinder their progress - a reality Sparks illustrates brilliantly.

As someone deeply rooted in my culture, I understand the importance of addressing not just the symptoms of inequality, but also the underlying causes. Sparks’ call to action encourages us to listen to the voices of women from all walks of life and craft solutions that reflect their specific needs and experiences.

The Role of Development in Empowerment

A significant theme in Sparks' article is the notion of empowerment. She emphasizes how critical it is for development initiatives to focus on building the capacities of women in underserved communities. Reflecting on my work in development, I recognise the power of inclusive programs that provide resources and cultivate leadership skills among women.

... because let's be honest - empowerment is multifaceted. It is about ensuring that women have access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities and fostering an environment where their voices are heard and valued. Sparks’ insights remind us of our responsibility to advocate for policies that uplift women in our communities, becoming the bridges from our communities and voices that correctly voice concerns felt at the community-level.

Navigating the Challenges

Sparks highlights the challenges faced by women in navigating between these two worlds. Many of us experience a complex journey: balancing cultural expectations, professional aspirations, and personal growth. Sometimes (maybe, most times), we are struggling in systems that were never built to accomodate people like us in mind. But we are resilient, and we learn and grow - and in these instances, it is beholden unto us to reach back for our sisters (and brothers) and help them forward also. As a Pacific woman in development, I often find myself working to bridge these worlds - promoting dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders, to ensure that women’s voices are central to the decision-making process.

In my experience, fostering partnerships between traditional knowledge and modern development practices can create meaningful solutions that respect cultural heritage while promoting progress - that will work towards lasting change. Sparks' perspective reinforces the importance of cultivating these connections to forge pathways for women across the Pacific.

A Call for Unity and Action

Ceridwen Sparks' "A Tale of Two Worlds" serves as both a reflection and a call to action for us as young Pacific women in the development sphere. Her observations illuminate the urgent need for equitable approaches prioritising women’s empowerment and recognising their unique challenges.

As we engage with these discussions, it is crucial to continue amplifying the voices of women in our communities. By uniting our efforts, advocating for inclusive practices, and leveraging our diverse experiences, we can drive transformative change that uplifts all women in the Pacific. In this journey, we honor the complexity of our identities and pave the way for a more equitable future. Let us come together to bridge the gap between our worlds and create a narrative that celebrates resilience, empowerment, and hope.

References:

Spark, Ceridwen. (2020). ‘Two different worlds’: Papua New Guinean women working in development in Port Moresby. Asia Pacific Viewpoint. 61. https://doi.org/10.1111/apv.12271

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