The invisible feminist action of Roma families

Abstract

In this article, we present the results of a study that analyses the role of Roma families (especially illiterate mothers and grandmothers) in the paths of academic success of Roma women (hereinafter, the Romí). Actually, a biased view of Roma culture as a reproducer of gender inequality still prevails, which is assumed to be higher among the Roma than in other cultures. In recent years, the scientific literature has shown that there are Romí who are key agents in the transformation of gender relations. A stereotypical perception exists that tends to hierarchically classify cultures (or communities) based on their apparent greater or lesser gender inequality that is thus overcome, which opens a feminist vision that identifies the transforming role of the Romí. This research concludes that family support in academic careers is a way of transforming gender relations within the Roma community.