THE DIGITAL MANIFESTO: CYBERFEMINISM AROUND THE GLOBE (Edited Collection)

deadline for submissions: 
August 6, 2024
full name / name of organization: 
M Malekpour

Cyberfeminism is a fusion of the term 'cyber', denoting the act of steering, governing, and controlling, and 'feminism', which represents an activist movement dedicated to women's liberation and justice at various levels - local, national, and international. Cyber-feminism aims to bridge the gap between the historical and philosophical traditions of feminism and contemporary feminist initiatives both online and offline. These initiatives focus on the lived experiences and realities of women from diverse backgrounds, including different ages, races, and socioeconomic statuses. The primary objective is to establish feminist politics in the digital sphere and equip women with the necessary skills, knowledge, and solidarity from fellow women across the globe. In spearheading this politicised feminist movement online, cyber-feminists must confront the novel social, cultural, and economic dynamics brought about by information technology, recognising that cyberspace mirrors the gender dynamics and struggles prevalent in the physical world (Wilding, 1998).

Emerging as a powerful tool in challenging traditional gender norms and advocating for women’s rights across the globe, Cyberfeminism movements have become a multifaceted phenomenon that intersects with empowerment, leadership, and activism. By utilising digital platforms, cyberfeminism has provided a medium for women to voice their concerns, share experiences, and mobilise for social change, thereby influencing the gender landscape of different nations and cultures. Moreover, cyberfeminism has also played a crucial role in raising awareness about women’s rights issues, which were previously considered taboo. By utilising online platforms, women have been able to shed light on issues such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, and discrimination. This has sparked public discussion and brought attention to these issues, leading to increased pressure on the authorities to address them.

This edited collection seeks to investigate the influence of cyber-feminism and digital activism in addressing gender inequalities and advocating for women's rights around the globe. Utilising feminist theories, postcolonial studies, and media studies, this collection will study the intersection of gender, technology, and activism within the realm of cyberfeminism.

Proposals from scholars at all stages of their careers on the intersection of Feminism, Media, and Cultural studies will be considered.

Questions to consider (potential topics):

  • How has cyberfeminism and digital movements reshaped gender discourse, empowered women, and challenged societal norms through digital activism and advocacy?
  • How has cyberfeminism reshaped gender discourse, empowered women, and challenged societal norms through digital activism and advocacy?
  • What are the challenges and opportunities for cyberfeminists on a global scale?
  • How has Art (Street Art/Film/TV Shows) and Music (and music videos) influenced and shaped cyber-feminist movements in different parts of the world (Asia/Middle East/North America/South America/Europe etc)?
  • What are the socio-economic barriers to technology access and how do they impact the effectiveness of cyberfeminism?
  • How has cyber feminism in different parts of the globe influenced policy and legal frameworks?

-       Cyberfeminism in the Middle East, North America, Asia, South American and Europe.

-       Cyberfeminism in Film, Music and Art.

-       Cyberfeminism and the Waves of Feminism.

-       The Evolution of Cyberfeminism.

 

Please email proposals of no more than 350 words to Miniature Malekpour at the following email address: miniature.malekpour@anu.edu.au or miniaturemalekpour17@gmail.com