Egyptian Feminism: a Western import, or an indigenous development?

1. Ann JohnsonDr. KampWomen’s Studies Egyptian Feminism: a Western import, or an indigenous development? PROPOSEDRESEARCH PROJECT Introduction Significance of Study Some Egyptian feminists might feel that Western feminism places Egyptian women in a “victims” category, and therefore, reject it as a model of feminism in Egypt. Others might feel that Western feminism gives them a framework to build upon in developing their movements. This examination will be significant because it will expand understanding of the ways that post-colonial feminisms interact with, reject, or redefine hegemonic Western feminisms.  Methods: Methods will include identifying Egyptian feminist organizations, websites, blogs, and literature, and analyzing those, comparatively, for their commentary on Western feminist influences. Then a historical literature review on Egyptian feminism will be compared with a Western feminist literature review. Subsequently, data gathered on current Egyptian women’s movements, through researching Egyptian feminist organizations, websites and blogs, will be used to illustrate Egyptian feminists’ rejection or acceptance of Western feminism. Data Analysis Data will be analyzed by identifying and comparing common themes related to the ideological objectives of Western and Egyptian feminist movements, and by accentuating Egyptian feminists’ opinions on Western feminism. Statement of Purpose This study will examine the ways in which Western feminism has influenced Egyptian feminism and how it is viewed by Egyptian feminists. Acknowledgements Dr. Marianne Kamp McNair Program : Susan Stoddard, Zackie Salmon, Pilar Flores, and Joanne Newcomb University of Wyoming High School Institute (HSI) Leila Ahmed Hoda Shaarawi Nawal El Saadawi Hypothesis It is hypothesized that Egyptian feminists assess the influence of Western feminism as necessary and beneficial to their cause.