An Empirical Exchange between Feminist Polemics and Politics

Abstract

This study is a collection of first-hand interaction with people from a diverse range of backgrounds with their subjective opinions regarding the impact and challenges of feminist activism in Pakistan over the last two decades (2000-2020). Realising that the research about the impacts of Aurat March focusing on empirical realities and facts is limited, if not non-existent, we made a conscious choice of using some empirical methods including SWOT analysis, surveys, participant observation and opinions in different interactive sessions which unmask some interesting facts about Aurat March. The data generated out of all these methodological sources was then seen and analysed in the light of a set of research assumptions based on our reading and understanding of feminist discourse in Pakistan. Our analysis problematises many wide-spread perceptions associated with feminism as being elite, urban and distant from the actual concerns and realities of Pakistani women and culture and also highlights the crucial role academia can play to bridge the gap between feminist polemics and their politics. The data also acknowledges the potential of feminist movement in transforming society if it is willing not to negate but negotiate with the cultural and material realities which inevitably shape and influence  its politics.The paper concludes that an inclusive approach towards feminism can fill many gaps left by contemporary sites of feminist activism, most importantly Aurat March.