Literature and Podcasts: New Ways to Promote Women’s Rights

In February, we were able to continue our collaboration with Radio Awu as part of this year’s Artist-in-Residence program. The Reading Sessions at Opera Village provide a safe space, especially for the women of the region, where they can discuss personal topics, reflect on societal challenges, and develop solutions together. As part of this initiative, multiple reading sessions were held, led by speakers Keren and Samira. The women had the opportunity to explore the works of renowned female authors, including Beauty is a Method by Christine Sharpe, Hard Times Require Furious Dancing by Alice Walker, and L’étreinte de la communauté and Rituel by Sobonfu Somé. To deepen engagement, the two facilitators introduced interactive games and questionnaires. This encouraged active participation, made the women feel valued, and motivated them to learn from one another. Additionally, further sessions were organized, expanding the focus beyond reading. Participants were able to express their concerns, address social injustices, and support each other. Men from surrounding communities were also included in the discussions, fostering a broader dialogue and a more comprehensive perspective on the topics addressed.

The Reading Sessions are part of our project to use literature as a tool for social change. In regions where many women have limited access to education and societal taboos are often not addressed, literature serves as an effective means of raising important social issues and fostering constructive dialogue. The sessions provide participants with the opportunity to learn more about their rights, question societal structures, and develop solutions. Despite existing laws aimed at protecting women’s rights in Burkina Faso, there is often a lack of awareness and concrete measures for their implementation. Issues such as violence against women, forced marriages, and female genital mutilation remain widespread. Women without formal education are particularly affected by these inequalities, as they often lack the means to express themselves or claim their rights. Through this project, we aim to encourage these women to raise their voices and actively participate in social discussions.

Starting in March, the Reading Sessions will be complemented by the production of feminist podcasts. These podcasts offer an important extension, providing a platform for women to share their perspectives and address societal issues from a female viewpoint. In a region where women’s voices are often unheard or overlooked, these podcasts serve as a significant tool for raising awareness of women’s political issues and promoting broader discussions. Podcasts from a female perspective are particularly important as they give women in the region a voice and address topics that are often not covered in mainstream media. They provide a safe space for women to share their experiences and challenges, whether related to rights, societal norms, or personal experiences. Through these podcasts, women not only have the opportunity to make their voices heard but also to reach a network of like-minded individuals and support each other. This is a crucial step in increasing the visibility of women and actively contributing to societal change.

The 2025 Artist-in-Residence program is supported by: