From the very first day, the school had life because of the women who were part of it. The mothers who came to help, who were interested in the idea and who cared what happened in their community. Almost all of our teachers have been women. The cooks, all women.
In a traditional pastoralist society, women nearly always come second. At Olng’arua School women created a place where they were equally important, where they were always heard and where they could hope to improve their own lives and those of their children.
Looking back over the years I realize that we were always a fiercely feminist school, without ever really talking about it. We simply held the belief in equality, as a sacred part of what the school was all about.
Standing up to patriarchy, even without ever saying so directly, is undoubtable part of what led to the violent attacks on the school. Both the first violent raid that destroyed the school buildings, and to several of our female staff being shot at a few months later.
Those women are back working at the school. Their bravery, and commitment to the children of our community, is a great example of leadership and compassion.
So, on International Women’s Day, I honor them, and all of the women who have been part of the school over the years. I am grateful to have been able to make this journey alongside them.
In these photographs are of just a few of the many women that have helped to make a difference at Olng’arua School.
