Dialogues | Empowering Survivors Through Technology: A Dialogue on Gender-Based Violence and Cultural Challenges in Pakistan and Latin America

A Conversation Between Hamida Khatri and Jessica Corona

For our dialogue, we selected questions that helped us navigate our conversation based on the cultural aspects of our projects. Following are the questions that Jessica asked Hamida and vice versa, exploring the unique challenges and innovative solutions in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in both regions, Pakistan and Latin America.

Questions for Hamida Khatri

1. In what ways do emerging technological approaches empower survivors to share their experiences and seek support or justice?

I am currently working on my doctoral project that addresses GBV through the innovative use of emerging technologies. This project involves 20 stories of GBV, gamified through virtual reality (VR) to provide an immersive and empowering experience for survivors. By integrating soft robotics and VR, we are creating a VR game that allows individuals to explore and share their experiences in a safe and controlled environment.

The game features characters that represent superheroes and monsters, symbolizing the survivors and their struggles. We use a specially designed suit to read data from the body, enhancing the interactive and therapeutic aspects of the experience. This technological approach not only helps in counselling but also empowers survivors by giving them a voice to tell their stories from various lenses—technological, psychological, and social.

Through VR, survivors can confront and process their trauma in a way that traditional methods might not allow. The immersive nature of VR can provide a sense of control and agency, enabling survivors to navigate their experiences and emotions more effectively. This innovative use of technology also raises awareness about GBV, highlighting the importance of mental health and the need for supportive non-profit organizations.

Overall, these technological approaches empower survivors by creating a platform for them to share their experiences, seek support, and potentially pursue justice in a manner that is both transformative and therapeutic.

2. How do cultural norms and societal attitudes influence the adoption and effectiveness of using technology to address gender-based violence in Pakistan?

Cultural norms and societal attitudes in Pakistan significantly influence the adoption and effectiveness of using technology to address GBV. Pakistan is a country where traditional values and patriarchal structures often dominate, which can create barriers to openly discussing and addressing issues like GBV. These cultural norms can lead to stigmatization and silence around the topic, making it challenging for survivors to seek help and for innovative solutions to be embraced.

However, introducing technology, such as the VR game and soft robotics I am currently developing, can gradually shift these attitudes. By providing a discreet and engaging platform for survivors to share their stories, these technological tools can bypass some of the societal restrictions and offer a private space for healing and empowerment. The immersive nature of VR allows survivors to explore their experiences without the immediate judgment or stigma they might face in real-life interactions.

Furthermore, as more people become aware of the therapeutic and transformative potential of these technologies, societal attitudes can begin to change. The involvement of non-profit organizations and advocacy groups in promoting and supporting these technologies is crucial. They can help educate communities about the benefits of these innovative approaches, fostering a more supportive environment for survivors.

While the initial adoption may face resistance due to entrenched cultural norms, the effectiveness of these technologies lies in their ability to provide new avenues for support and healing that align with the cultural context. Over time, as success stories emerge and awareness spreads, these technological approaches can contribute to a gradual shift in societal attitudes, making it more acceptable to address and combat GBV openly.

3. How accessible are these emerging technologies to women in different regions of Pakistan, particularly in rural or marginalized communities?

The accessibility of emerging technologies, such as VR and soft robotics, to women in different regions of Pakistan, particularly in rural or marginalized communities, poses significant challenges. While these technologies offer innovative solutions to address GBV, several factors affect their reach and effectiveness in these areas.

Firstly, the infrastructure in rural and marginalized communities is often lacking. Limited access to reliable electricity, internet connectivity, and technological devices can hinder the deployment and use of VR and other advanced technologies. Many women in these areas may not have the necessary resources or technical knowledge to engage with these tools effectively.

Secondly, economic constraints play a crucial role. The cost of acquiring and maintaining advanced technological equipment can be prohibitive for many individuals and organizations working in underprivileged regions. Without financial support from the government, non-profits, or international donors, it is challenging to make these technologies widely available to those who need them most.

Cultural and societal factors also influence accessibility. In conservative areas, women may face restrictions on their mobility and social interactions, making it difficult for them to participate in programs that utilize these technologies. Additionally, there may be a lack of awareness and understanding of how these technologies can help address GBV, leading to resistance or skepticism from the community.

Despite these challenges, there are opportunities to enhance accessibility. Mobile outreach programs and community centers equipped with these technologies can bring resources directly to women in rural areas. Collaborating with local non-profit organizations and community leaders can help raise awareness and foster acceptance of these innovative approaches. Training and capacity-building initiatives can empower women with the skills needed to use and benefit from these technologies.

4. How can partnerships between mental health professionals, technology developers, and gender-based violence organizations be strengthened to maximize the impact of virtual reality in addressing mental health needs?

To maximize the impact of VR in addressing the mental health needs of survivors of GBV, strengthening partnerships between mental health professionals, technology developers, and GBV organizations is essential. Here are several strategies to enhance these collaborations:

1. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encourage ongoing communication and collaboration between mental health professionals, technology developers, and GBV organizations. Regular workshops, seminars, and joint projects can facilitate knowledge exchange and foster a deeper understanding of each field’s unique challenges and contributions.
2. Shared Goals and Objectives: Establish clear, shared goals and objectives that align the interests of all partners. This common purpose will ensure that all efforts are directed towards the same outcome—providing effective and accessible mental health support for GBV survivors through VR technology.
3. Co-Development of Solutions: Involve all stakeholders in the development process of VR applications. Mental health professionals can provide insights into the therapeutic aspects, GBV organizations can highlight the specific needs and sensitivities of survivors, and technology developers can create user-friendly and effective VR solutions. This co-development approach ensures that the final product is holistic and tailored to the needs of survivors.
4. Training and Capacity Building: Conduct training programs for mental health professionals and GBV organizations to familiarize them with VR technology. Similarly, technology developers should be educated about the psychological and social aspects of GBV. This mutual understanding will enable more effective use and promotion of VR tools.
5. Evaluation and Feedback: Implement mechanisms for continuous evaluation and feedback. Mental health professionals and GBV organizations should regularly assess the effectiveness of VR interventions and provide feedback to technology developers. This iterative process will help refine and improve the VR applications based on real-world experiences and outcomes.
6. Funding and Resource Sharing: Secure funding to support collaborative projects. Partnerships can apply for grants and other financial resources to develop, implement, and maintain VR solutions. Resource sharing, such as providing technological infrastructure to GBV organizations, can also enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of these tools.
7. Public Awareness and Advocacy: Jointly engage in public awareness campaigns to promote the benefits of VR in addressing mental health needs related to GBV. Advocacy efforts can help reduce stigma, increase acceptance, and drive demand for innovative solutions among survivors and the broader community.
8. Policy and Support: Advocate for policies that support the integration of technology in mental health care for GBV survivors. This includes pushing for governmental and institutional support, which can provide a sustainable framework for these initiatives.

By fostering strong, collaborative partnerships between mental health professionals, technology developers, and GBV organizations, we can create and implement VR solutions that effectively address the complex mental health needs of GBV survivors, leading to better support, healing, and empowerment.

5. Are there any existing initiatives or research studies exploring the effectiveness of virtual reality interventions in improving the mental health outcomes of women who have experienced gender-based violence in Pakistan?

In Pakistan, there are currently no existing initiatives or research studies exploring the effectiveness of VR interventions in improving the mental health outcomes of women who have experienced GBV. Recognizing this gap, I am dedicated to making a difference by pioneering efforts to introduce and develop VR-based solutions to support GBV survivors. My goal is to create immersive and therapeutic VR experiences that can help women process their trauma, manage anxiety and depression, and find empowerment through innovative technology. By advocating for and implementing these VR interventions, I aim to provide much-needed mental health support and pave the way for future research and initiatives in this crucial area.

6. What role can virtual reality play in promoting empathy and understanding among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public regarding the mental health consequences of gender-based violence in Pakistan?

VR can play a transformative role in promoting empathy and understanding among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public regarding the mental health consequences of GBV in Pakistan. By creating immersive, first-person experiences that simulate the realities faced by GBV survivors, VR can evoke powerful emotional responses and foster a deeper understanding of their trauma. For policymakers, experiencing these simulations can provide a visceral awareness of the urgent need for supportive policies and resources, encouraging more empathetic and informed decision-making. Healthcare professionals can benefit from VR by gaining a better understanding of the psychological and emotional impacts of GBV, which can improve their ability to provide sensitive and effective care. For the general public, VR can raise awareness and challenge societal attitudes, reducing stigma and promoting a culture of empathy and support for survivors. Through these immersive experiences, VR has the potential to bridge the gap between abstract understanding and emotional connection, driving meaningful change in attitudes and actions towards GBV and its mental health consequences in Pakistan.

7. How can virtual reality simulations be tailored to address specific mental health challenges commonly faced by survivors of gender-based violence in Pakistan, such as trauma, anxiety, and depression?

VR simulations can be tailored to address specific mental health challenges commonly faced by survivors of GBV in Pakistan, such as trauma, anxiety, and depression, through several targeted strategies:

1. Culturally Relevant Content: Ensure that VR simulations incorporate culturally relevant content that reflects the lived experiences, cultural norms, and societal context of GBV survivors in Pakistan. This involves using familiar settings, languages, and scenarios that resonate with the survivors’ backgrounds, making the simulations more relatable and impactful.
2. Trauma-Informed Design: Develop VR experiences based on trauma-informed principles. This includes creating safe and controlled environments where survivors can explore their experiences without feeling overwhelmed. Simulations should allow survivors to control the pace and intensity of their interactions, helping them process trauma gradually and safely.
3. Exposure Therapy for Trauma: Use VR for exposure therapy, where survivors can gradually confront and process traumatic memories in a controlled and supportive virtual environment. This can help reduce the intensity of trauma-related symptoms over time. The simulations can be designed to allow survivors to revisit specific traumatic events in a way that feels manageable, with the support of a mental health professional guiding the process.
4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Integrate VR experiences that teach and facilitate mindfulness and relaxation techniques. These can include guided meditation, breathing exercises, and serene virtual environments designed to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Such simulations can help survivors manage anxiety and stress in their daily lives.
5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Create VR simulations based on cognitive-behavioral therapy principles, which help survivors identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. Interactive scenarios can guide survivors through CBT exercises, helping them develop healthier coping strategies and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
6. Social Support Networks: Develop VR simulations that provide a sense of community and social support. Virtual group therapy sessions or support groups can connect survivors with others who have similar experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. These simulations can include virtual representations of peers and counselors, creating a supportive and interactive environment.
7. Psychoeducation: Incorporate educational components within VR simulations to help survivors understand the psychological impact of GBV and the importance of mental health care. Providing information about common symptoms, coping strategies, and available resources can empower survivors to seek help and engage in their healing process.
8. Interactive Storytelling: Use interactive storytelling to allow survivors to explore narratives that mirror their own experiences. This can help them process their emotions and gain new perspectives on their situations. Survivors can engage with virtual characters and scenarios that reflect their journeys, promoting empathy and self-reflection.
9. Customized Therapy Plans: Tailor VR simulations to individual therapy plans developed by mental health professionals. Each survivor’s VR experience can be customized based on their specific needs, preferences, and therapeutic goals. This personalized approach ensures that the VR interventions are aligned with the survivor’s unique healing journey.
10. Feedback and Adaptation: Continuously gather feedback from survivors and mental health professionals to refine and improve the VR simulations. Regularly updating the content and features based on user experiences and outcomes ensures that the interventions remain effective and relevant.

By tailoring VR simulations to address the specific mental health challenges of GBV survivors in Pakistan, we can provide targeted and effective therapeutic interventions that support their healing and recovery. These customized VR experiences can play a crucial role in helping survivors manage trauma, anxiety, and depression, ultimately improving their overall mental health and well-being.

8. What measures are in place to ensure the ethical use of virtual reality technology in storytelling and mental health support for survivors of gender-based violence in Pakistan?

Ensuring the ethical use of VR technology in storytelling and mental health support for survivors of GBV in Pakistan involves several key measures. Firstly, obtaining informed consent is crucial. Survivors must be fully informed about the nature of the VR experiences, potential emotional impacts, and their right to withdraw at any time without any consequences. This ensures that their participation is voluntary and based on a clear understanding of what to expect.

Confidentiality and privacy are also paramount. Measures must be taken to protect the personal data and identities of survivors. This includes secure data storage and strict access controls to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. Additionally, all data collected should be anonymized where possible to further safeguard survivors’ identities.

Cultural sensitivity and relevance are essential in the design and implementation of VR interventions. The content should be developed with a deep understanding of the cultural, social, and religious contexts of Pakistani society. This helps in creating experiences that are respectful and resonate with the survivors’ backgrounds. Engaging local mental health professionals, survivors, and community leaders in the development process can ensure that the VR content is both appropriate and effective.

Professional oversight and support are vital. Mental health professionals should be involved in guiding and supporting survivors throughout their VR experiences. They can provide immediate assistance if a survivor experiences distress and ensure that the VR interventions are integrated into a broader therapeutic framework.

Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to assess the impact and ethical implications of VR interventions. Regular feedback from survivors and mental health professionals can help identify any potential issues and make necessary adjustments. This iterative process ensures that the interventions remain ethical, effective, and aligned with the needs of the survivors.

Lastly, transparency and accountability are critical. Organizations using VR technology for GBV support should be transparent about their practices, methodologies, and funding sources. Establishing oversight mechanisms, such as ethics committees or advisory boards, can provide ongoing review and ensure adherence to ethical standards.

By implementing these measures, we can ensure that the use of VR technology in storytelling and mental health support for GBV survivors in Pakistan is conducted ethically, respectfully, and effectively, promoting healing and empowerment without causing further harm.

Questions for Jessica Corona

1. Jessica, can you start by sharing what inspired you to initiate the archival project focusing on newspaper articles from 1900-1960s, and specifically on how women were represented during those times?

My personal experiences growing up in Ciudad Juárez and witnessing the femicide crisis firsthand provide a powerful motivation for initiating the archival project. By focusing on newspaper articles from 1900-1960s and analyzing how Latina women were represented during those times, I aim to contextualize historical perspectives on gender representation. This understanding is crucial in addressing the ongoing issue of femicide, not only in Ciudad Juárez but also in the United States. Through my project, I seek to shed light on the historical roots of gender dynamics and representation, which can help inform current discussions and actions aimed at addressing violence against women. By examining how Latina women were portrayed in historical newspapers, I aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of societal attitudes and biases that may have influenced the perpetuation of violence against women historically and in contemporary society.

My project serves as a testament to the resilience of women in the newspapers as well as the mother’s and family members who have lost their women to GBV, the activists and community members who have taken an active role in pushing for social justice and women like my mother and grandmother who had to navigate the challenges posed by the femicide crisis. By documenting and analyzing historical narratives, I honor their experiences and strive to create awareness and change in addressing GBV.  Furthermore, it seeks to highlight the ways in which these violent experiences have influenced modern society, upholding patriarchal, sexist, and misogynistic practices that negatively affect Latina women. Important issues like forced sterilization, migration of women workers, beauty standards, and birth control experiments that target women of color are highlighted as widespread problems in modern society, with women experiencing revictimization and the consequences of insufficient institutional responses. I aim to suggest that these societal issues are entrenched in deeply ingrained norms and beliefs that perpetuate inequality and sexism. However, I emphasize that the portrayal of these women is not to depict them as weak or sensationalize their stories, but rather to showcase their resilience and agency in the face of adversity. As a result, the database highlights the impact of feminism that is visible in the collection and shows how women actively organized to confront unjust structures. Chicanas taking part in demonstrations, newspaper articles written by women promoting their rights, and community involvement by women in organizing initiatives to protect the lives and rights of other minority women are only some instances of this. 

During the early 20^th century, societal norms and expectations significantly shaped the representation of women, particularly in the context of GBV. Here’s how women were typically portrayed, and the broader issues connected to societal norms, religion and marriage during that time:

Representation of Women

1. Stay-at-Home Wives: Women were predominantly seen as homemakers whose primary responsibilities revolved around taking care of the household and raising children. This role was reinforced through media, education, and societal norms.
2. Subordination to Husbands: Women were expected to be obedient and supportive of their husbands. The ideal woman was one who followed her husband’s lead and conformed to his expectations, both in public and private life.
3. Beauty Standards and Behavior: There were stringent beauty standards women were expected to meet, emphasizing modesty, cleanliness, and femininity. Personality-wise, women were expected to be demure, polite, and nurturing. Deviations from these standards often led to social ostracism or being labeled as “bad” women.

Issues Connected with Religion and Marriage

1. Religious Influence: Religion played a significant role in shaping gender roles. Many religious teachings reinforced the idea of male dominance and female submissiveness. Women were often taught that their primary purpose was to support their husbands and care for their families, with religious texts and clergy promoting these ideals.
2. Marriage as a Social Institution: Marriage was seen as a fundamental social institution, with women’s identities and statuses largely defined by their marital roles. Unmarried women or those who deviated from traditional roles faced stigma and discrimination.
3. Moral Expectations: Women were held to high moral standards, often rooted in religious doctrine. Purity, chastity, and fidelity were highly valued, and any perceived moral failing could lead to severe social repercussions.

Impact on Gender-Based Violence

1. Blaming the Victim: In cases of GBV, the prevailing attitudes often led to victim-blaming. Women who experienced violence were frequently scrutinized for their behavior, appearance, and adherence to social norms, with the implication that any deviation could justify the violence.
2. Limited Legal and Social Support: The societal and religious norms of the time often resulted in limited legal and social support for women experiencing violence. Laws and social services were biased towards maintaining the status quo, and women’s complaints were often dismissed or trivialized.
3. Silencing of Women’s Voices: The expectation that women should remain passive and obedient extended to their ability to speak out against violence. Many women were silenced by the fear of social reprisal and the lack of supportive structures.

2. In your research, have you noticed any recurrent language patterns or descriptors that were commonly used to refer to women in those archived articles? How do you think this language influenced societal views on gender roles?

In my research on archival materials from the early 20^th century, several recurrent language patterns and descriptors were commonly used to refer to women. These patterns significantly influenced societal views on gender roles and contributed to the perpetuation of certain stereotypes and expectations. Here are some key findings:

1. Domestic and Familial Roles:

• Descriptors: “Housewife,” “homemaker,” “mother,” “dutiful wife.”

• Implications: These terms emphasized women’s primary roles within the home and family, reinforcing the notion that a woman’s place was in the domestic sphere.

2. Physical Appearance and Beauty:

• Descriptors: “Fair,” “beautiful,” “elegant,” “modest,” “well-groomed.”

• Implications: Emphasis on physical appearance underscored societal expectations for women to maintain certain beauty standards. It suggested that a woman’s value was tied to her looks and how well she adhered to prescribed beauty norms.

3. Behavior and Virtue:

• Descriptors: “Obedient,” “demure,” “modest,” “pure,” “chaste,” “virtuous.”

• Implications: These descriptors reinforced behavioral expectations, suggesting that “good” women were submissive, modest, and morally upright. Deviating from these behaviors often led to negative judgment and social consequences.

4. Negative and Diminutive Terms:

• Descriptors: “Nagging,” “hysterical,” “emotional,” “frivolous,” “scandalous.”

• Implications: Negative terms were used to diminish women who did not conform to societal norms or who voiced dissent. This language served to undermine women’s credibility and autonomy.

5. Roles in Marriage:

• Descriptors: “Devoted wife,” “supportive spouse,” “loyal partner.”

• Implications: These terms emphasized women’s roles as supportive figures to their husbands, reinforcing the idea that a woman’s primary duty was to her marriage and her husband’s wellbeing.

6. Victim-Blaming in Violence Reports:

• Descriptors: “Provoked,” “brought it upon herself,” “unfortunate,” “tragic but avoidable.”

• Implications: Language in reports of GBV often implied that women were at fault for the violence they experienced. This victim-blaming reinforced societal norms that held women responsible for preventing abuse through their behavior and appearance.

Influence on Societal Views on Gender Roles

1. Reinforcement of Gender Norms: The consistent use of language that emphasized domesticity, physical appearance, and submissive behavior reinforced traditional gender roles. These norms became deeply ingrained in societal expectations and were perpetuated through media and cultural narratives.
2. Stigmatization and Control: Negative and diminutive terms served to stigmatize women who did not conform to societal expectations. This language acted as a social control mechanism, discouraging women from stepping outside prescribed roles and behaviors.
3. Perpetuation of Inequality: By consistently framing women in relation to their husbands and families, the language of the time perpetuated gender inequality. It suggested that women’s identities and worth were inherently linked to their relationships with men, thereby limiting their opportunities for independence and self-actualization.
4. Normalization of Victim-Blaming: The language used in reports of GBV normalized victim-blaming and shifted the focus away from the perpetrators. This influenced societal views on violence against women, making it more difficult for victims to seek justice and support.
5. Cultural Transmission: These language patterns were transmitted across generations, influencing how subsequent generations viewed and treated women. The repetition of these descriptors in media, literature, and everyday conversation ensured the persistence of traditional gender roles.

The recurrent language patterns and descriptors used in early 20^th century media significantly shaped societal views on gender roles. By emphasizing domesticity, beauty standards, submissive behavior, and victim-blaming, these language patterns reinforced traditional gender norms and perpetuated gender inequality. Understanding these historical language patterns is crucial for contemporary efforts to challenge and change persistent stereotypes and to promote gender equality.

3. Given the articles are in Spanish and you’re translating them into English, how do you handle nuances and cultural context in translation to ensure the original meanings and implications are preserved?

Translating historical Spanish articles into English while preserving nuances and cultural context is a delicate process. Here’s how I handle it to ensure the original meanings and implications are maintained:

Before translating, I thoroughly research the historical and cultural context of the time period. Understanding the societal norms, gender roles, and cultural nuances of the early 20^th century in both the U.S. and Mexico is crucial. I pay attention to the specific events, social dynamics, and linguistic trends of the time. This awareness helps in interpreting the intended meanings behind certain phrases and terms that may not have direct equivalents in English. I balance between literal translations and contextual interpretations. While some phrases may have a direct translation, others require a more nuanced approach to convey the same cultural and emotional weight. I strive to maintain the original tone and style of the articles. For instance, if an article uses formal or archaic language, I reflect that in the English translation. Similarly, colloquial expressions and idioms are translated in a way that captures their essence. When a direct translation might obscure the meaning, I use annotations or footnotes to provide additional context. This helps readers/viewers understand the cultural or historical significance of certain terms or phrases.

Spanish often uses gendered language that doesn’t directly translate to English. I ensure that the implications of gender-specific terms are clear in English, even if it means slightly altering the sentence structure. Titles and formal terms of address that have specific connotations in Spanish are translated with their cultural significance in mind. For example, translating “Doña” as “Mrs.” might not always capture the respect and social standing implied, so I might choose to retain the original term with an explanatory note. If an article uses a phrase that blames the victim in a way that is specific to the cultural context (e.g., “ella se lo buscó” – “she asked for it”), I would translate it to reflect the same level of judgment and cultural implications, possibly adding a footnote about its societal impact. Terms like “mujer decente” (decent woman) carry specific cultural weight. I would translate it as “respectable woman” and ensure that the surrounding text reflects the social expectations tied to that label.I collaborate with bilingual colleagues and experts in both languages to review translations. Their feedback helps ensure that nuances are accurately captured, and that the translation resonates with both linguistic and cultural authenticity. In summary, translating these historical articles involves a careful balance of linguistic precision and cultural sensitivity. By understanding the context, employing specific translation techniques, and engaging in collaborative review, I ensure that the original meanings and implications are preserved in the English translations.

4. Can you discuss some challenges and revelations you’ve encountered while trying to identify the women in these articles—whether as mothers, sisters, or in other roles—and why this aspect is significant to your project?

Identifying the women in historical articles, whether as mothers, sisters, or in other roles, presents several challenges and yields significant revelations that are crucial to the project’s goals. Many articles provide limited information about the women mentioned. Names might be abbreviated, and personal details often omitted, making it difficult to identify them precisely. Cultural norms of the time sometimes dictated that women were referred to indirectly or not named at all, especially in the context of scandalous or violent events. Phrases like “the woman” or “the wife of” were frequently used, leaving the identity ambiguous. Unlike today, historical newspapers rarely included photographs, making visual identification impossible. This lack of visual evidence limits cross-referencing with other historical records. Articles often reflected the biases of their time, sometimes minimizing the importance of women’s identities or roles. This bias can obscure the true significance of the women’s experiences and contributions.

Identifying women in these articles reveals much about the social roles and expectations placed on them. It highlights the ways in which women’s identities were tied to their familial roles and how society viewed their contributions primarily in relation to men. By identifying women and their roles, it becomes possible to trace patterns of GBV. For example, seeing repeated instances of violence against women labeled as “disobedient wives” or “unfaithful women” sheds light on the societal justifications for such violence. My research often reveals intersections of gender with class, race, and ethnicity. Identifying women from different backgrounds can show how these intersecting identities influenced their experiences and how they were reported in the media. Despite the challenges, identifying specific women sometimes reveals their voices and agency. Instances where women resisted or spoke out can be uncovered, providing a more nuanced view of their lives and contributions. Recognizing and naming these women preserves their legacies and acknowledges their experiences. It is a form of historical justice, giving voice to those who were often marginalized or silenced in their time. Understanding the historical context of GBV and the roles of women informs contemporary activism. It highlights long-standing issues and provides a historical foundation for modern efforts to address gender inequality and violence. Identifying women and their roles provides educational value, offering concrete examples for teaching about gender roles, societal norms, and the history of GBV. It aids in creating more engaging and relatable educational materials.

In cases where women were not named, the challenge lies in piecing together their identities from scant details. However, even when unnamed, their stories reveal societal attitudes toward women and violence. Identifying women who were public figures or activists provides insight into the resistance against societal norms. Their stories highlight the contributions of women who fought for change and their impact on society. Identifying everyday women, such as mothers and sisters, shows the day-to-day realities and struggles they faced. It emphasizes that the history of GBV affected all women, regardless of their public visibility. In summary, identifying women in historical articles is both challenging and revealing. It requires meticulous research and often involves overcoming incomplete or biased reporting. However, this aspect is crucial for humanizing the historical record, preserving legacies, informing activism, and providing educational value. It enriches the project by adding depth and personal narratives to the historical accounts of GBV.

5. You mentioned creating a database. Could you explain more about what this database includes and how it aids both your research and public access to this historical data?

The creation of my database involves compiling content from a selection of newspapers including La Prensa, El Pueblo, El Portavoz, El Regidor, El Bejarano, and El Imparcial, spanning the years 1900 to 1980. These newspapers were accessed through both the Hispanic American Newspapers database covering the period from 1808 to 1980 and the UTSA Special Collections Library. Text mining techniques were then employed to search through archives and collect the data. Additionally, articles from El Portavoz and El Pueblo newspapers were specifically digitized within the UTSA Special Collections Library to ensure their preservation and accessibility to our project database. In addition to collecting textual data, the text mining process also involved analyzing images in the newspapers articles. These images provided valuable context for understanding various aspects such as fashion trends, depictions of women, and societal issues. By examining these visual elements alongside the textual content, a more comprehensive understanding of the historical context and cultural nuances surrounding the data was attained. This approach allowed for a richer interpretation of the information gathered from the newspapers. This database focuses exclusively on content originating from San Antonio, and El Paso, Texas providing a localized perspective on historical events, societal trends, and cultural norms within both regions.

The primary framework of this digital archive, which focuses mainly on feminism, gender roles, gender violence and similar subtopics, is to capture the voices of Latina women by using digital and physical periodicals from the Hispanic American Newspapers, 1808-1980 database and UTSA special collections. By creating separate collections pertaining to cases of femicides, women’s contributions in San Antonio and El Paso, social and political issues of women, and analysis of harmful beauty expectations I have explored the intersectionality of gender with race, ethnicity, class and other similar factors. Once combined together, this framework aims to reveal the harm directed toward Latina women through gender practices, violence, and reproductive rights violations. In the end, this project is dedicated to the power of Latina women and their work throughout San Antonio and El Paso.

My database serves multiple purposes. For research, it provides a centralized repository of historical newspaper articles, facilitating analysis of how women were represented during the 1900s to the 1960s. Researchers can use the database to track trends, identify biases, and explore societal attitudes towards women over time. For public access, the database democratizes historical data by making it easily accessible to anyone with internet access. This enables students, scholars, journalists, and the general public to explore primary sources firsthand, gaining insights into past events, cultural norms, and women’s roles in society. Additionally, by making this information readily available, my database promotes transparency and fosters a deeper understanding of history among a wider audience.

6. With regards to the oral histories documentation project, could you describe the process of collecting these stories and the impact you hope these narratives will have on understanding gender-based violence?

The process of collecting oral histories for documenting GBV is meticulous and involves several stages. At the moment my work is not focusing on a collection of oral histories, but it is something I consider engaging later on in my work. Since I am aware that the process of collecting oral histories involves careful planning, ethical considerations, and a sensitive approach to interviewing and documenting personal narratives. Oral histories can have a profound impact, offering a deeper, more personal understanding of GBV. 

7. How do you utilize Omeka for your projects, and what advantages does this platform offer for digital archiving and publishing in your work?

Omeka serves as a repository for archiving various digital materials. For my project involving the documentation of GBV in El Paso, Texas and San Antonio, Texas, Omeka can store and organize historical newspapers, photographs, documents, and other relevant media. It also allows for detailed metadata management, enabling the inclusion of comprehensive information about each archived item. This is crucial for ensuring the accessibility and searchability of the data related to GBV incidents. It also provides a user-friendly interface for public access. By making the curated data and exhibits available online, the project can reach a broader audience, including researchers, activists, educators and communities. 

8. Lastly, looking at the broader impact of your work, how do you see your projects contributing to ongoing activist efforts, particularly in bridging the informational gap between Mexican and U.S. narratives on gender issues?

The broader impact of my work extends beyond academic circles, significantly contributing to ongoing activist efforts, especially in bridging the informational gap between Mexican and U.S narratives of gender issues. By archiving and curating historical data on GBV from both sides of the border, my work brings to light incidents and patterns that have been underreported or overlooked. This helps in raising awareness about the prevalence and continuity of GBV. The inclusion of data from El Paso and San Antonio offers a comprehensive view of GBV that transcends national boundaries. This cross-border perspective is crucial for understanding the shared and distinct challenges faced by women in these regions. The detailed, historical data collected provides a robust evidence base that activists and policymakers can use to advocate for more effective and targeted interventions. By showcasing historical trends, my work can inform contemporary strategies to combat GBV. Activists and community members can leverage the data and insights from my work to push for policy changes at both local and international levels. The documented cases and trends can serve as compelling evidence in policy discussions and legislative processes. Lastly, my work challenges stereotypes and simplistic narratives about gender issues by providing a nuanced and historically grounded perspective. This helps in creating a more informed and empathetic public discourse. By documenting and sharing the stories of women from these regions, my work amplifies voices that have historically been marginalized or silenced. This contributed to a more inclusive and representative narratives on gender issues.