Durban: For Ela Gandhi, the struggle for justice has never been confined to one form of oppression. As a social worker, activist, and former anti-apartheid campaigner, she describes her identity as rooted in the fight for equality in South Africa.
According to South African Government News Agency, Gandhi, who is the granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi, draws inspiration from her family's legacy in her quest for justice. Her grandfather's philosophy of non-violent resistance significantly influenced South Africa's liberation struggle. Gandhi is also a member of the Eminent Persons Group of the National Dialogue, announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2025.
Gandhi, now a retired social worker and grandmother, emphasized the multifaceted oppression faced by black women during apartheid. "My colleagues and I recognized the triple oppression we faced as black women," she noted, referring to oppression based on race, economic status, and gender. She articulated how these oppressive systems collectively deprived black women of opportunities and maintained their inferior status.
Reflecting on the progress made, Gandhi acknowledged strides in advancing gender issues but warned that patriarchy remains deeply entrenched. She expressed concern over the current state of feminism, noting a shift towards a "macho patriarchal identity" that undermines intrinsic values such as compassion and care. True emancipation, she argued, requires addressing this identity crisis.
Gandhi also discussed the significance of being part of the Gandhi family, a lineage that taught her compassion and resistance to injustice. Despite occasional doubts about living up to the Gandhi name, she has accepted her individuality, recognizing that everyone is fallible.
Commemorative days like Women's Day remain crucial, Gandhi asserted, as they prompt reflection on the present situation. She highlighted the persistence of gender-based violence and the stagnation of women's roles in the home despite progressive laws. Equal partnership between men and women, she believes, is essential for societal improvement.
As South Africa marks 30 years of its Constitution, Gandhi emphasized the importance of adhering to its principles. She urged the nation to combat corruption and reclaim the spirit of ubuntu, advocating for a collective effort to build a better society.
Gandhi's reflections serve as a reminder that the struggle for equality and justice continues, and achieving a better South Africa requires the participation of every generation. Her message is clear: building a better future is a collective responsibility.
