Patriarchal interpretation of religions

In the contemporary debate as to equality and religion, feminism has over time reflected on the unequal role granted to women in the most widely followed religions. Its analyses highlight the misogyny and forms of subjugation, whether subtle or blatant, which are normalised through roles underpinning the traditional authority of men.

Following on from these reflections, feminist Christian groups such as Voices of Faith, present in various countries, or Revuelta de Mujeres en la Iglesia in the Spanish church, alongside initiatives such as Emakumeen Aldarria in the Basque country, are making their voices heard. Their aim is to protest against the many ways in which women suffer injustice and are overlooked in the church. They likewise demand that churches should become a community of equals, with women being granted full entitlement as members.

These claims furthermore lie within a context in which religion and equality are often seen as incompatible terms, facing many female believers with personal and collective conflicts in exercising their religious freedom. In response, many figures call for the human rights and autonomy of women to be guaranteed, including within all religions.

We should lastly consider our initial perspective in debating religion and equality. In our societies, women of different faiths are often judged from viewpoints riddled with androcentrism and racism, as may, for example, be seen in certain debates as to Muslim women, in which the exercise of their rights is used to foment hate speech.