Women and the Land: Poverty and Environment
Loading...
Author
Showalter, JoAnn
Date
2008
Degree
Master of Arts in Earth Literacy
Abstract
In the economically developed nations, women are frequently removed physically,
emotionally and spiritually from the land even while dependent upon planetary resources. In
developing nations, the opposite is generally true and women are integrally connected to the
land as environment. It is commonly heard from Western eco-feminists that Judeo-Christian
scripture can be held accountable for the negative relationships facing both women and the
land/environment. That statement is only partially true. The reality extends further back in time
and is much more pervasive. | intend to review the history of patriarchy and the relationship of
patriarchy with women and the land. In addition, it is my intent to demonstrate the triangle of
poverty, environment and the status of women. The use of actual case projects will illustrate
women’s use of planetary resources in their efforts to rise out of poverty and to grow in self
respect and family self sufficiency. In the midst of this are signs of hope for women and the
land. This paper is the foundation of a workshop designed for presentation to my congregation.