Member-only story

Gender Norms and Educational Outcomes for Latinas in Nicaragua

--

By Véronique Lahaie Luna and Dr. Benjamin M. Drury

Rigidly controlled behaviors and opportunities limit practical access to education and opportunities for upward social mobility for Latinas living in Nicaragua.

MILITANT/LINDA JOYCE Women in militia in Bluefields, Nicaragua, 1983. After revolutionary course was abandoned by Sandinista leaders in late 1980s, women lost many gains. Abortion was totally banned in 2006.

There exists an important issue within Nicaraguan society regarding the cultural interpretation of women’s place, autonomy, and their role within the family. Socially constructed norms related to gender affect people in varying degrees of intensity and frequency. We acknowledge that Nicaragua faces obstacles in aligning with normative social bonds observed in other South American countries. Persistent patriarchal attitudes and deep-rooted stereotypes regarding gender roles and identities in Nicaragua can be oppressive and limiting for women, preventing them from exercising their autonomy and choosing how they want to live their lives. Nicaragua is also a place in the world where women’s autonomy is seen as dangerous or a threat to the collective interests of the family and the nation is a concerning observation. It suggests that there are societal pressures and expectations placed on women that hinder their ability to fully participate and thrive in various spheres of Nicaraguan society.

Addressing these cultural interpretations and stereotypes is crucial for promoting gender equality, empowering women, and fostering a more inclusive and progressive society. By challenging patriarchal norms, supporting women’s autonomy, and recognizing their valuable contributions, Nicaragua can strive towards a more equitable future where individuals have the freedom to choose and shape their own lives, irrespective of their gender. One pathway that does exist within Nicaragua is a pathway to upward social mobility for women through education, but their success is largely determined by the gender expectations imposed on them by their family.

Cultural interpretation of women’s roles and the challenges they face in Nicaragua can have a significant impact on the learning experiences of Latinas in Central America. These societal norms and expectations can influence how education is perceived, accessed, and experienced by Latinas in the region. Again, persistence patriarchal attitudes and deep-rooted stereotypes may result in limited educational…

--

--

Chicago Education Advocacy Cooperative
Chicago Education Advocacy Cooperative

Written by Chicago Education Advocacy Cooperative

Serving the needs of racialized and minoritized students in Chicago since 2020. www.chieac.org

No responses yet

Write a response