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Challenging the Tradition of Javanese Women
Abstract
Given the diversity of people and cultures in Indonesia, it is difficult to speak about Indonesian women in general. Therefore, this paper examines the tradition of Javanese women and how this is being challenged by the women's movement. The women's groups in Indonesia, both traditional and those within the movement, are discussed in historical outline, including those supported by the government and non-governmental organizations. These have been classified as Conformist, Reformist and Transformist, a typology that seeks to discuss the range of activities undertaken by the groups, of which all are not progressively inclined. Some of the groups' activities are focused on bringing about gender equality and have kindled hope for improving Javanese women's lives. However, the obstacles that remain are numerous and represent a long and arduous struggle that is being, and is likely to be, undertaken in the future.
Introduction
It is difficult to speak about Indonesian women in a general way without taking into account the different ethnic groups that are present in the country, such as the Javanese, Sundanese, Balinese or Timorese and so on. All of these groups have their own unique cultures and traditions. However, since the Javanese are a pre-dominant community in terms of population and in the economic, educational and political spheres, quite often Java and the Javanese have been viewed as representing Indonesia and its cultures. This paper is focused on the tradition and life of Javanese women and the work of some government-supported and non-governmental women's organizations in Java. Some of these groups have been trying to promote women's awareness about their roles within their families; their position in society at large; and their contribution to development of their society. Not all women's organizations have the same objectives: there are several that challenge traditionally given norms about gender roles in society but, as will be seen in this paper, there are others that can be viewed as strengthening the traditional roles of women.
Tradition versus Development
Traditionally an ideal Javanese woman is supposed to focus her energies on her role in the domestic sphere, such as preparing of food, reproduction and caring for her family. In addition, she is supposed to care for her own physical beauty....