Care, coloniality and feminist narratives: the case of Peru

Abstract

Women's dispute over public space further highlighted the problem of care and the urgency of countries to build actions to reduce gender inequality and commit to a democratic reality. From feminism, dignifying care and putting it at the center for the sustainability of life are historical demands that make more sense in crisis situations, such as the COVID 19 pandemic experienced between 2020 and 2022, a context in which It increased much more care work for women within their homes. Reflecting on care invites a deep questioning not only of the patriarchal system that turns its back on women, but also of the current coloniality. The objective of this article is to analyze how the conceptual framework of care and coloniality characterize feminist narratives that demand the recognition of care as a human right in Peru where, due to exacerbated machismo, women continue to assume stereotypical gender roles. Therefore, it is key for a welfare state and as a matter of social justice to rethink care from communities and recognize the multiple situations of oppression that fall on women.