Sana

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Starting Point

Sana grew up in a traditional religious household and obtained an Islamic education throughout her studies. During her college years, she participated in an organisation that engaged with environmental issues, where she was exposed to the idea of Ecofeminism, a principle that she still holds today. Her background is reflected in her activism and organisational membership today. She is active in SP Kinasih and several religious organisations, and she commits to continuously promoting a gendered approach to ensure that women’s voices are included in any organisational initiatives. 

Moreover, SP Kinasih, established in 1999, is part of Solidaritas Perempuan (SP), which translates to Women's Solidarity, a national women's movement network. It responded to the injustices committed by the New Order regime, such as its reliance on the dual function of the military (for governance and security) and the dispossession of lands linked to the emergence of natural resource capitalisation. In responding to the issue, SP Kinasih is committed to applying feminist principles to existing problems, particularly issues related to the involvement of women in migration, the climate crisis, agrarian justice, food security, and sexuality (which encompasses any problems affecting women’s autonomy, such as autonomy over their beliefs).

As an organisation, SP Kinasih routinely recruits and requires new members to participate in their training, including tenets of the feminist perspective. Further, to ensure healthy organisational activity, SP Kinasih evaluates their members’ activity, and if members indicate that they are no longer active in the organisation, their membership will be revoked. Regarding funding, SP Kinasih requires members to pay IDR 35000 (approximately USD 2.5) per year for the organisation's operations and firmly rejects financing from governments and corporations to ensure its objectivity. Despite this stance, SP Kinasih has been building communication channels with the government to identify opportunities for collaboration that will help their cause.

Peace Journey

In addressing societal issues while ensuring that women are involved in any peace process, SP Kinasih conducts research, campaigns, and education. It has conducted various research studies on issues in which SP Kinasih is engaged. For example, SP Kinasih analysed misogynistic narratives in religious teachings and proposed an alternative interpretation of spiritual ideas. The findings of their research become a basis for other initiatives, including classes on feminism, art events to raise awareness, training to enhance individual capacity, and encouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds to meet and learn from one another, while also gradually establishing new networks. 

SP Kinasih also engages in fieldwork, which they consider more “confrontational.” For example, SP Kinasih conducts community organising during an agrarian conflict in Wadas, Yogyakarta. SP Kinasih's presence protects women, who are more vulnerable to violence by male-dominated activists, and ensures that women's interests are incorporated in any negotiation and conflict resolution. SP Kinasih operates a social media account that provides live updates on the situation in Wadas, Yogyakarta, which has been relied upon by mainstream news outlets. 

Success Stories

SP Kinasih is known for its active engagement on social issues, particularly in the area of agrarian conflict. As part of its advocacy efforts, the organisation occasionally participates in direct actions. These activities have drawn the attention of government authorities, who observe and engage with SP Kinasih’s activities and initiatives. Based on accounts from members, there have been instances where the government has to make sure that procedures are in place to guarantee both the right to assembly and the maintenance of public order during SP Kinasih’s public campaigns and gatherings. Some members have also noted challenges in participating in certain conflict-related activities due to external pressures.

SP Kinasih is aware of the risks of its work. SP Kinasih has established a mechanism to ensure the safety of its members while maintaining their ability to be active in their advocacy. SP Kinasih also established a network of organisations that can assist them in protecting their members with SafeNet, an organisation engaging with digital issues, including the digital safety of activists. 

Related to her work in SP Kinasih, Ms. Sana acknowledges that her advocacy efforts strain her mental health, particularly when a conflict escalates or when there is strong resistance. She addresses such issues by communicating with other activists, particularly senior activists, who often have the knowledge and network to assist her in resolving her issues. One of the senior activists she confided in was a counsellor, and the counselling helped her immensely. It was also suggested that she engage in recreational activities disconnected from her work.