Carleton University’s Feminist Institute of Social Transformation explored Afro-diasporic conversations of resistance, identity, and cultural resilience at an event on Nov. 13.
The event, titled “Afro Diasporic Feminist Dialogues and Black Women’s Project of Re-existence in Ecuador,” was part of the institute’s Feminist Futures Lecture Series. Held at Dunton Tower, the event focused on the lived experiences and transformative practices of Black women in Ecuador.
Attendees were invited to participate in a conversation that challenged mainstream narratives and highlighted how Black women in Ecuador have reshaped their social and political environments.
Afro-diasporic feminist scholar Beatriz Juárez-Rodríguez spoke about the significance of “re-existence,” a concept where marginalized groups reclaim and redefine their lives in the face of oppression. Juárez-Rodríguez began this process of re-existence by reflecting on the historical marginalization of Black voices in Ecuador.
“Black women have long been the architects of cultural survival andresistance,”Juárez-Rodríguez said. “Re-existence is not merely survival; it is a radical act of reclaiming dignity and asserting our place in the world.”
Juárez-Rodríguez highlighted Afro-Ecuadorian women’s grassroots initiatives, including music, storytelling and community rituals, that blend cultural traditions with contemporary advocacy.
“The songs, dances, and rituals are not just cultural artifacts — they are living testimonies of survival,” she said. “They serve as a reminder that the Afro-diasporic experience encompasses both a history of suffering and a legacy of boundless creativity and hope.”
Amrita Hari, director of the feminist institute, said enhancing critical awareness in lecture events is important.
“These discussions raise awareness about issues such as indigeneity and resistance from perspectives outside of Canada,” she said. “It provides an opportunity to consider social movements and organizing in ways that defy conventional frameworks.”
Hari said the lecture brought awareness to the intersection of resistance and identity.
“Different topics are part of informing the listener, so I think that’s part of awareness and education,” Hari said.
The lecture resonated with Jade Sullivan, a second-year master’s Latin American and Caribbean studies student at Carleton.
“Carleton students should attend more of these feminist lectures,” Sullivan said. “They are immensely informative and present viewpoints you may not encounter in a standard classroom. It’s an excellent setting to learn and connect.”
Sullivan said Juárez-Rodríguez brought a “compelling perspective,” which taught her more about the nuances of Black feminism and Afro-feminist thought.
“I gained a wealth of knowledge about how Black feminism is connected globally and its relevance to a specific context like Ecuador. I was previously unaware of much regarding Ecuador, but now I feel more linked to its narratives,” she added.
Sullivan said she was able to reflect on how individuals can embody resistance in their everyday lives.
“The personal is political,” Sullivan said. “Advocating for yourself is one way to resist, but it also involves disseminating knowledge and supporting community organizing.”
Featured graphic by Alisha Velji/The Charlatan.
