Project Title: Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action (JISRA)
Donor: Dutch Embassy through Tearfund
Implementer: RURCON
Breaking the Chains of Inequality: Ishaya’s Bold Stand for Gender Equality Inspires a Movement in Rafiki Community, Bassa LGA, Plateau State.
Ishaya Pam, a respected community leader in Rafiki Community, Bassa LGA, Plateau State, had witnessed how deeply entrenched cultural practices could limit progress and perpetuate inequality. In his community, it was a long-standing tradition that only male children inherited family property, a norm that deprived women of economic opportunities and reinforced their lower status.
Ishaya’s perspective began to change in 2021 when he attended a workshop organized by JISRA on harmful cultural practices, dialogue, and mediation. The training opened his eyes to the negative impacts of gender discrimination and the importance of promoting equality and respect for all genders. Determined to change the norm, Ishaya decided to include his daughters in the family inheritance.
When Ishaya first discussed this decision with his four sons, he faced strong resistance. They argued it was against tradition and the practices of their forefathers. However, using the mediation techniques he had learned, Ishaya gave them time to reflect rather than imposing his decision. Months later, he gathered his four sons and two daughters for a heartfelt discussion. He explained his reasons for wanting to share the inheritance equally, emphasizing the importance of fairness and gender equality.
After a serious deliberation, his children agreed to the new arrangement, and they set a date to distribute the inheritance. The outcome was joyous, as everyone was happy with the fair decision. Word of Ishaya’s decision spread through the community, and while some elders criticized him, he took the time to explain the lessons he had learned about equality and respect for all genders.
Inspired by Ishaya’s courage and conviction, a friend decided to follow suit, ensuring his daughters also received their rightful share of the inheritance. Ishaya’s bold decision catalyzed change, challenging harmful traditions and promoting gender equality in his community.