The shifting terrain of feminist theory and activism : university-based women's centres and third wave feminism

This thesis, based on the results of an organizational ethnography of a university-based
\nfeminist organization in Southern Ontario (the Centre), traces how third wave feminism
\nis being constituted in the goals, initiatives, mandate, organizational structure, and overall
\nculture of university-based feminist organizations. I argue that, from its inception, the
\nmeanings and goals of the Centre have been contested through internal critique,
\nreflection, and discussion inspired by significant shifts in feminist theory that challenge
\nthe fundamental principles of second wave feminism.
\nI identify a major shift in the development and direction of the Centre that occurs in two
\ndistinct phases. The first phase of the shift occurs with the emergence of an antioppression
\nframework, which broadens the Centre's mandate beyond gender and sexism
\nto consider multiple axes of identity and oppression that affect women's lives. The
\nsecond phase of this shift is characterized by a focus on (trans) inclusion and accessibility
\nand has involved changing the Centre's name so that it is no longer identified as a
\nwomen's centre in order to reflect more accurately its focus on mUltiple axes of identity
\nand oppression.
\nAlong with identifying two phases of a major shift in the direction of the Centre, I trace
\ntwo discourses about its development. The dominant discourse of the Centre's
\ndevelopment is one of progress and evolution. The dominant discourse characterizes the
\nCentre as a dynamic feminist organization that consistently strives to be more inclusive
\nand diverse. The reverse discourse undermines the dominant discourse by emphasizing
\nthat, despite the Centre's official attempts to be inclusive and to build diversity, little has
\nactually changed, leaving women of colour marginalized in the Centre's dominant culture
\nof whiteness.
\nThis research reveals that, while many of their strategies have unintended (negative)
\nconsequences, members of the Centre are working to build an inclusive politics of
\nresistance that avoids the mistakes of earlier feminist movements and organizations.
\nThese members, along with other activists, actively constitute third wave feminism in a
\nprocess that is challenging, contradictory, and often painful. A critical analysis of this
\nprocess and the strategies it involves provides an opportunity for activists to reflect on
\ntheir experiences and develop new strategies in an effort to further struggles for social
\njustice and equity.

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