We, women of the periphery, reinforce the importance of networking in Latin America
By Bianca Pedrina, from Nós, mulheres da periferia
It is both challenging and inspiring to work in journalism and be named “we, women of the periphery.” It can be heavy, considering that we are multiple and aim to encompass the wholeness of what we represent.
How do we tell stories, care for and reflect on memories? In the 10 years of our existence, these questions have been answered by actively listening to our pain, anxieties and achievements.
Beyond words, careful listening is required to validate that we are communicating as we intend to. This work is not only carried out by those who founded Nós, but also by those who give meaning to our existence: Black and peripheral women.
These women in a world that judges, blames and exploits them. And yet they still find the breath to keep going. Pain can shape them, but never define them. Our mission to bring plural and diverse narratives is only possible with the strength of the community, networking with other women and with our peers committed to doing quality journalism. Yes, we do journalism. Even if they try to fit us into other niches to keep us away from this essential communication and informational tool.
Recognizing other media that also narrate historically invisibilized lives and face similar challenges reinforces that we are not alone. Our commitment is to build an information ecosystem that promotes equity and challenges power structures. As Nós, mulheres da periferia, we believe that we will only be plural and diverse if we are connected, learning from each other, sharing our pain and empowering our achievements. This is the way for journalism to truly be a tool for social transformation.
This broader view was strengthened at the gathering “Restoring information ecosystems”, held in Chile in November 2024 by The Engine Room. During days of rich exchange, we learned from organizations such as Baudó/Agencia Pública and Mutante (Colombia), Vita Activa and LatFem (Argentina), Projeto Lava and Alharaca (El Salvador), Quid (Brazil), Sembramídia (Dominican Republic), Social Tic and La Sandía Digital (Mexico), Ella Cuenta, Mullu TV and Radio Ambulante (Ecuador).
The generosity of each organization in sharing experiences, challenges, and lessons learned reaffirmed our complementarity in both our narratives and our collective strength.
This meeting, full of affection and reflections, gave us breath to continue our journey. It reaffirmed that the future of journalism is collective. It is with collaboration, learning and courage that we continue to challenge structures and tell the stories of those who are still invisibilized.