In the expanse of women's history and the evolution of feminism, there is a vibrant thread that has often been overlooked: the necessity of viewing this journey through a decolonized lens. This article aims to unravel how feminism, largely construed as a quest for liberation by white women from white man patriarchal structures, missed the profound essence of what it means to dismantle such systems. Unlike the hierarchical approach that mirrors the patriarchal framework, true matriarchy is rooted in circular, community-centered philosophies, with children at its heart. From this decolonized, trauma-informed educator's perspective, we delve into the intricate dance of redefining feminism, critiquing the concept of the "divine feminine," and celebrating the potential of a truly inclusive and healing matriarchal community.
When exploring the intricacies of feminism, it becomes clear that the journey toward liberation has often been painted in broad strokes of pink, delineating a path largely carved by the experiences and ambitions of white women. This narrative, while significant, overlooks the rich tapestry of indigenous knowledge, community-centric living, and the deep-seated understanding of matriarchy that exists outside the hierarchical confines of traditional feminism.
The Roots of Feminism: A White Woman's Construct
Feminism, in its mainstream incarnation, emerged as a battle cry against the patriarchal structures that suffocated the voices and freedoms of women. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that the architects of this movement were primarily white women, whose socialization and interactions were predominantly with white men—the very epitome of oppressive power. This narrow framing inadvertently replicated the hierarchical structures it sought to dismantle, emphasizing individual liberation over collective healing and community cohesion.
Feminism, as it has been predominantly presented, sprouted from the efforts of white women striving to escape the clutches of a patriarchal society that limited their freedoms and rights. This liberation movement, however, was incubated within a societal bubble that included only their experiences and those of the white men who held, and continue to hold, the reins of systemic oppression. The critical oversight was in believing that adopting the hierarchical, top-down structures of power could offer a genuine escape from oppression, rather than reproducing it in another guise.
Beyond Hierarchies: The Essence of True Matriarchy
True matriarchy, often misrepresented or misunderstood, is neither about dominance nor about mirroring the power dynamics of patriarchy. It is a system rooted in circularity, where leadership, responsibility, and wisdom flow seamlessly among members of the community. Unlike the hierarchical approach of conventional feminism, matriarchy places a profound emphasis on the needs of the community, with a special focus on nurturing and protecting children—the bearers of future generations. This perspective celebrates interconnectedness and the collective over the individual, valuing every member's contribution to the whole.
It is neither about supremacy nor about mirroring the patriarchal quest for dominance. This model celebrates the wisdom of elders, the strength of community bonds, and the importance of healing and growth. It recognizes that leadership is about service, guidance, and fostering unity, rather than exerting control.
Children: The Heart of the Community
In a matriarchal framework, children are revered as the most precious members of the community. Their well-being, education, and spiritual growth are central to the society's ethos, reflecting a deep understanding that the true measure of a community's strength lies in how it raises its young. This focus ensures that the next generation inherits a legacy of empathy, respect for nature, and a profound sense of belonging—qualities desperately needed in today's fractured world.
This emphasis on nurturing, protecting, and educating children goes beyond biological offspring, extending to all young ones within the community. It is a recognition that the survival and flourishing of the community depend on the holistic development of its youngest members.
Decolonizing Feminism: The Divine Feminine Misinterpreted and Commercialized
The concept of the "divine feminine" has gained popularity in contemporary discourse, often associated with a romanticized, superficial empowerment that overlooks the gritty realities of nurturing and community-building. The true essence