Art and activism: promoting women's reproductive rights
The Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Social Sciences Research Centre is highlighting a significant contribution to the discourse on women's reproductive rights through the lens of art activism. The recently published book, Transnational Visual Activism for Women’s Reproductive Rights: My Body, My Choice, edited by Basia Sliwinska and published by Routledge, includes a chapter by Dr. Jana Kukaine, Lead Researcher at RSU. This chapter delves into the intersection of art and activism in Latvia, providing a nuanced exploration of how art can serve as a catalyst for social change.
The role of art in social change
Sliwinska, an internationally recognised art historian and researcher at NOVA University Lisbon, has curated a collection that examines how contemporary art practices, including participatory art and artivism, can drive social and political transformation. The book brings together authors who analyse strategies employed by various art forms to foster social change, stimulate political discourse, and create spaces for marginalised voices.
Insights from Dr. Kukaine
In her chapter, "My First Year Too: Obstetric Violence and Maternal Subjectivity," Dr. Kukaine investigates the Latvian project "My First Year Too," initiated by artists Elīna Brasliņa, Agra Lieģe-Doležko, and Elīna Bērziņa. The project began as a social media platform collecting parents' stories and portraits and evolved into a broader initiative, including exhibitions, workshops, and discussions.
Dr. Kukaine elaborates: ‘The project started as a way to gather and share personal stories about childbirth experiences. It quickly grew into a significant social initiative, highlighting issues of violence in childbirth and advocating for women's reproductive rights.’
The "Draw Your Birth Story" workshop. Photo: Courtesy of Elīna Brasliņa
Obstetric childbirth: a feminist perspective
Dr. Kukaine's analysis focuses on the concept of violence in childbirth, as understood through feminist theories. She highlights how stereotypes and gender roles influence the experiences of childbirth and inhibit maternal subjectivity. ‘Violence in childbirth is not merely about medical negligence or rude attitudes,’ Dr. Kukaine notes. ‘It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes, norms and societal expectations about femininity and “fit motherhood”.’
The chapter underscores the importance of recognising and addressing these issues to promote gender equality and respect for women's rights. Dr. Kukaine's work sheds light on the often-overlooked aspects of maternal experiences and the cultural narratives that shape them.
The broader implications
The insights provided in this book are crucial for professionals in healthcare, psychology, law, and multimedia communication. Understanding the social and cultural dimensions of reproductive rights can help these professionals make informed decisions and advocate for better policies and practices.
Dr. Kukaine's chapter also discusses the broader implications of the "My First Year Too" project. ‘By using artistic means to highlight hidden and traumatic experiences, we can bring attention to the diverse facets of motherhood,’ she says. ‘This initiative has the potential to change public perceptions and encourage more respectful and empathetic approaches to childbirth.’
The "Draw Your Birth Story" workshop. Photo: Courtesy of Elīna Brasliņa
How to engage?
The RSU Social Sciences Research Centre encourages the community to engage with this important work. By promoting awareness and understanding of women's reproductive rights, we can contribute to a more equitable and just society.
For more information and to access the book, visit Routledge's website or contact the RSU library.