Alexandria's Lens: Gender, Politics & Society PDF

Alexandria’s Lens: Gender, Politics & Society Introduction This project delves into the experiences of individuals in Alexandria, Egypt, through a critical lens that encompasses political science, psychology, and sociology. Students from these disciplines will explore the multifaceted l...

Alexandria’s Lens: Gender, Politics & Society Introduction This project delves into the experiences of individuals in Alexandria, Egypt, through a critical lens that encompasses political science, psychology, and sociology. Students from these disciplines will explore the multifaceted lives of Alexandrians by analyzing their participation in societal, and political spheres. Utilizing diverse media—such as books, films, articles, and potentially even local interviews—students will uncover the challenges people face and celebrate their triumphs. Discussions will unpack the interplay between gender and other social categories and their impact on individuals' experiences. This project represents a valuable opportunity for students to engage with critical social issues while developing practical policy analysis and advocacy skills. Vision To foster a more equitable Alexandria where everyone can fully participate in and contribute to all aspects of society. Mission To empower youth to critically analyze the experiences of both genders in Alexandria through a diverse range of media and in-depth discussions. This project will cultivate a nuanced understanding of gender dynamics in the city and equip students to advocate for positive change. Goals The project culminates in the creation of a policy paper. Students will identify specific issues and draft a compelling policy paper proposing actionable solutions. This paper will be presented to a relevant stakeholder, such as a local NGO, or a specific government department. Objectives Knowledge & Awareness: To analyze the social, political, and economic realities in Alexandria. To learn about different topics related to gender in many aspects. To increase student understanding of relevant theories and policy frameworks. Critical Thinking & Analysis:  To develop critical thinking skills by evaluating diverse media sources on gender issues in Alexandria. To analyze primary and secondary sources to identify key issues and potential solutions. To engage in critical discussions about gender dynamics and propose evidence-based solutions. Research & Communication Skills: To refine research skills through effective mentoring. To work on data collection and analysis skills through conducting interviews with local citizens. To develop clear and concise writing skills through the creation of a policy paper. To hone public speaking skills through presentations to stakeholders. Policy Advocacy: To identify specific, actionable issues. To develop a well-researched policy paper proposing solutions to the chosen issue. The specific policy areas of the paper that we will be focusing on will be chosen through participants whether it’s related to education, healthcare, economic empowerment, or political participation through collaborative research and issue selection.  Project Session General Structure: Time Allotment: 5 hours Activities: 1. Introduction (10 minutes): Briefly introduce the session rules and goals Provide a short overview of the chosen media (book excerpt, film clip, article, etc.) 2. Engaging with the Media (40 - 60 minutes): Present the chosen media to the students. Depending on the format, this could involve reading an excerpt, watching a scene, or discussing a specific article section. Encourage active viewing/reading by providing guiding questions beforehand. (e.g., What are the key themes explored? What challenges or opportunities are presented?) 3. Group Discussion & Note-Taking (20-30 minutes): Encourage them to share their thoughts, reactions, and interpretations based on the media they experienced. Provide each participant with note-taking materials or a shared online document to capture key points and emerging ideas. The facilitator can ask questions to ensure everyone participates. 4. Guest Speaker: Academic Framework ( 2 hours included 20 minutes break):  Introduce the guest speaker with relevant expertise on the topic being discussed. The speaker will present a specific academic framework related to gender and social issues in Alexandria. This could involve outlining relevant theories, historical context, or applicable policy frameworks. Encourage students to ask questions and connect the framework to the media they previously reviewed. 5. Wrap-Up & Task Assignment (10 minutes): Briefly summarize the key points discussed and connections made between the media, student insights, and the academic framework. Introduce the assignment for the session. This could involve: ○ Individually reflecting on their notes and identifying a specific issue related to Alexandrian women. ○ Starting initial research on their chosen issue. ○ Preparing for interviewing individuals on the topic we have discussed. Provide clear instructions, deadlines, and expectations for the task. Membership and outreach This project is designed for political science, psychology, and sociology students who are passionate about gender equality and social justice issues. Reaching the audience will be through: - Social Media: Utilizing social media platforms to promote the project to students interested in gender studies, politics, and social activism. - Highlighting Benefits: Emphasizing the valuable skills students will develop, such as research, critical analysis, policy writing, and advocacy. Action plan timeline Announcement on social media platforms (August 2024) In this stage we will: 1)prepare the content that would be published about the project details 2) receive applications from participants and go through the filtration phase. Starting the project Session 1 Objectives: - Build connections among participants - Introduce the organization and its team - Present the project and its journey - Discuss the ethics and guidelines Date: August 30, 2024 Duration: 3 hours Agenda: 1. Presentation: - Overview of the organization, the project, and its ethical guidelines. 2. Conduct an assessment 3. Break: - Enjoy a refreshing pause with fruits and juices. 4. Icebreaker Activities: - "That's Me" Activity: Participants will take turns making statements. Others will respond with "That's me!" if it applies to them, adding enthusiasm and fun to the interaction. - Partner Introduction Activity: Participants will pair up and get to know each other. Then, each person will introduce their partner to the group. Materials: - No materials are required for this session but make sure to receive the printed and signed acknowledgement of photography and commitment to participate. Session 2 Objectives: - Provide an overview of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)  - Explore how each goal impacts gender issues, focusing on human rights, and gender equality. - Date: September 6, 2024 - Guest Speaker: Yasmine Aburaya Resources: - Presentation slides on SDGs and their impact on women - Case studies or articles on gender and SDGs - The media that we will review before the talk Materials Needed: - Projector and screen for the presentation - Handouts or digital copies of key SDG documents Session 3 Objectives: - Discuss the difference between gender and sex - Explore examples of gender roles - Differentiate between gender equality and gender equity - Examine interacting and common factors in the formation of gender Date: September 13, 2024 Guest Speaker: Mai El Bahy Resources: - Presentation slides on gender and sex - Articles or case studies on gender roles and equity - Interactive activities or discussions on independence, agency, and leadership Materials Needed: - Projector and screen for the presentation - Flip charts or whiteboard for group activities - Handouts or digital resources on gender topics Session 4 Objectives: - Facilitate a discussion led by the guest speaker on empowerment and gender-based violence - Engage participants in creating art pieces using recycled materials to express their views on empowerment and gender-based violence Date: September 20, 2024 Guest Speaker: Hussan Soliman Resources: - Screening of the movie "The Stoning of Soraya" for thematic inspiration Materials Needed: - Projector and screen for movie screening - Art supplies, including wasted or recycled materials - Space for art creation and display - Work on lighting to capture gallery of their work Session 5 Objectives: - Explore the relationship with the body from childhood to adulthood - Examine the relationship with family and community - Define identity and explore how it is influenced by society and how we express ourselves - Discuss the cultural and traditional influences (both positive and negative) on identity and self-expression - Analyze power dynamics and their impact on personal and societal levels - Use cooking as a medium to explore emotional connections with food and body image Date: September 27, 2024 Guest Speakers: Muntada Jensaneya and Halet Wasl Resources: - Screening of the movie "Donia" for thematic exploration Materials Needed: - Cooking ingredients and supplies for interactive discussion - Kitchen facilities and utensils for cooking activities - Projector and screen for movie screening Session 6 Objectives: - Learn effective dialogue techniques - Explore how dialogue can lead to positive change Date: October 4, 2024 Guest: The Dialogue Company Resources: - Workshop materials on dialogue techniques - Case studies or examples of dialogue leading to change Materials Needed: - Flip charts or whiteboard for interactive activities - Handouts or digital resources on dialogue strategies Session 7 Objectives: - Showcase diverse activists and their contributions across different ideas, religions, and cultures - Highlight the work of activists and organizations advocating for gender equality and social justice in Egypt - Discuss roles in decision-making processes - Examine national and international legal frameworks that support or hinder gender issues Date: October 11, 2024 Guest Speaker: Yasmine Alaa Eldin Resources:  - Screening of "He Named Me Malala" for inspiration - Trivia questions and materials related to the session topics Materials Needed: - Projector and screen for movie screening - Trivia materials (question cards, score sheets, etc.) - Digital resources on activists and gender equality topics Session 8 Objectives: - Understand the principles of policy papers and how to decide on relevant topics - Develop advocacy skills, including understanding their meaning, tools, and methods - Explore examples of successful advocacy efforts Date: October 18, 2024 Guest Speaker: Nour Mohamed Resources: - "This vs That" debate to illustrate different advocacy approaches - Case studies on effective advocacy Materials Needed: - Flip charts or whiteboard for brainstorming policy paper topics - Debate materials (score sheets, timers, etc.) Sessions 9-13: Objectives: - Separate teams and assign roles for research and media tasks - Work on project ideas in an organized space with team collaboration - Review progress, work together towards a common issue, and provide support - Follow up on the development and implementation of ideas Dates: - October 25, 2024 - November 1, 2024 - November 8, 2024  - November 15, 2024 - November 22, 2024 Guest: N/A (sessions will be focused on team work and progress with Farah and Mohamed but if they need specific experts we will provide that ) Resources: - Online and offline collaboration tools for project development - Templates for research and media tasks - Progress review materials Materials Needed: - Project management tools (e.g., shared documents, communication platforms) - Research and media resources (e.g., data sources, design tools) - Meeting space (both physical and virtual) Preparing for the closing ceremony to be by the end of November 2024 Collaboration Outputs - Policy Papers or Recommendations:Documents outlining policy proposals or recommendations related to gender issues. - Social Media Content:Informative or engaging posts on social media platforms to raise awareness about discussed topics. Outcomes - Increased understanding of gender dynamics in Alexandria, Egypt. Through the identification of specific issues faced by Alexandrian citizens. - Enhanced Leadership & Advocacy Skills: Members gain experience in leading discussions, organizing research, and advocating for change. - Social & Political Change:The activities may contribute to broader social or political changes that advance gender equality. - Community Building & Solidarity: The project fosters a supportive community for members to think and share. Conclusion Our project culminated in student-led policy proposals tackling gender inequities in Alexandria. This journey empowered students to become agents for change, advocating for a future where all Alexandrian can reach their full potential.