‘Feminism in the virtual space: The Indian context

Abstract

The present paper examines the new ways in which feminism is articulated. More specifically it examines the ways in which feminism has occupied the virtual space. This occupation is not an adjunct to the feminist street marches and protests in the physical spaces. Though that is not to say that it is contradictory to protests in the geographical space. It has emerged in its own right. It is another mode of protest which tackles patriarchy, misogyny, and gaslighting in its own way. Feminism in the virtual space through the use of technology has emerged as a powerful tool of activism and resistance. Online feminism challenges the „angry‟ feminist trope. Feminism is also not just about angry, frustrated, and bitter women. It is about people of all kinds of sexuality who challenge the dominant structural inequalities in society. The paper briefly traces the history of the feminist movement and the interlinkages between offline and online protests. It then discusses the other ways in which feminism and the feminist movement occupy the virtual space. This is done through the analysis of two websites. It is not just about Hashtag (#) feminism but goes beyond that. These websites in a multitude of ways challenge the rhetoric of feminism and also question the dominant androcentric and patriarchal structures. Digital feminism is real and it is valid. In contemporary times it shapes the feminist discourse even though it is still not completely inclusive and intersectional. Digital protests should not be viewed independently of offline protests. They have to go hand in hand with offline street marches. The methodology used is cyberethnography and lurking using non participant observation.