Generating the future, activating the present

current dilemmas and challenges for Latin American feminism

Abstract

This article examines the dilemmas and challenges facing Latin American feminisms in the current paradoxical conjuncture, in which on the one hand, feminism, in all its diversity, occupies a prominent place as one of the most important and dynamic social and political forces in the subcontinent; and on the other hand, it faces strong external and internal tensions due to a strong onslaught by conservative, anti-rights and fundamentalist groups and internal polarisations around the very objectives of the feminist project. To this end, I propose to describe the characteristics of these contemporary feminisms that are actively intervening in the political conjunctures of each country in the region, demanding an end to violence against women in all its manifestations, the legalisation of abortion, and respect for their labour, territorial and economic rights. Secondly, I will refer to the challenges faced by these feminisms in a context in which a strong reactionary counter-offensive has been generated against some achievements in terms of equality and the sexual and reproductive rights of women and the LGBTQI+ population. Finally, I will refer to some internal debates within feminism that highlight the current quest to deepen its reflection from the concrete, articulating memories, struggles and proposals contrary to the liberal framework of law. I will conclude by pointing out how in the midst of these difficulties and tensions, the feminist movement remains a source of hope.