International Grandmother Gathering

"Take my Hand, Run with Me" were the opening words of a Song of Welcome, sung by South African activist, Mama Darlina (in red shawl). This was the inviting start to the 3-day International Grandmother Gathering held last week in Winnipeg at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights.  Attending were Canadian grannies from across Canada and African grandmothers from 11 African countries, celebrating 20 years of partnership and solidarity with the Stephen Lewis Foundation (SLF).

If you have ever met Mama Darlina,  you will be struck by her twinkling eyes, her energy, and her determination to advocate for better health and human rights for grandmothers in South Africa and across the African continent. As I joined this Gathering on Zoom,  I was struck by Mama's indomitable spirit and the joy she brings whenever she speaks or bursts into song. 

Over the course of the 3 days and thanks to technology,  there were opportunities to hear directly from gatherings of African grannies in 11 countries about the progress that SLF has enabled over the past 20 years.

The good news is that HIV/AIDS patients are now able to access medication which has ensured they live longer, healthier lives. Also good news is the report that the rate of transmission of the virus is slowing down gradually each year. 

However, there are challenges still ahead. Access to Healthcare in rural and poorer areas is limited and young women and teen girls still face the highest risk of infection due to lack of education or prevalence of cultural violence.

Beyond better health, what became apparent to me during this event is the amazing transition African grandmothers have made from feeling powerless to feeling empowered. Through advocacy, they are making their voices heard with policymakers at all levels of government. In some countries like South Africa, they have been successful in establishing an Elder Persons Rep in government. While some grandmothers are still seeking food security, safe shelter, safety from abuse, there is a sense of positive moving forward towards a more AIDS free future.

 The International Grandmother Gathering closed with a song led by the grannies in BC…

" We are standing hand in hand,

We are walking step by step,

We are singing heart to heart,

We are grandmothers, sisters,

Let us turn the tide."

There was optimism in the air as the Gathering closed even though there is still work to be done. Grandmother Groups will continue their work locally and invite your continued support to keep the momentum going. As Meg French, Executive Director of SLF said, " Another world is not only possible but on its way!" 

In this time of world turbulence, the International Grandmother Gathering was a sign of hope. It was my privilege to have been able to participate in this special celebration.

Report by Peg Hiscoke, co convenor, Hands and Hearts for Africa.