The Eritrean women's group was founded about 30 years ago by women who fled Eritrea during the war of independence and has existed as a house group in the IBZ for about as long. Through the participation of women in the struggle, the image of the Eritrean woman began to change in society in the 70s and 80s. The issue of equality became more and more the focus and women began to deal with it intensively.
This newly gained self-confidence was not only limited to Eritrean society, but was also carried into exile, so that almost everywhere in the world where an Eritrean community could be found, a women’s group also existed – as was the case here in Bielefeld.
The aim of the foundation was the mutual support and the mediation of a sense of home in a foreign country. Especially the latter was a very important factor, as the new life in the diaspora was associated with many hurdles, so that they could draw strength from it.
Our group currently has 9 active members.
At our meetings, we address issues that affect Eritrean women in the diaspora and also in Eritrea itself.
In addition to our regular meetings, we also organize celebrations at the IBZ twice a year: One on the occasion of International Women’s Day to recall that today’s state of equality for women should not be taken for granted and is a process that has not yet been completed, and the other on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities to focus on people, especially women, in Eritrea who need special support.
In addition to our own meetings and celebrations, we also participate in central events of the IBZ in our role as a house group and are pleased that this provides us with a platform to act as a cultural ambassador.
E-mail: eri_frauen_bielefeld@gmx.de
Treffen: Meeting: Every 1st Saturday of the month, from 3 p.m., in room 5
Family Future im is an open and intercultural community for families, single people and especially single mothers with a migration history.