The Dynamics of Gender and Social Justice in Argentina

    As a supplement to its Women’s Studies curriculum, the College of Arts and Humanities has designed a study abroad program for undergraduate and graduate students interested in gender studies at UCF.

    Because Feminist Theory is usually taught in US institutions from a Western perspective that privileges the work of US, British, and French thinkers, this course seeks a more diverse understanding of feminist voices and action around the world. Critics of western feminism argue that western feminism promotes imperialism, dismisses issues of race and class, and promotes an idea of a universal “Third World Woman,” without regard to the diversity and specificity of culture. This course, then, examines global gender critiques of western feminism; the theory and praxis of global and transnational feminism, which argues for solidarity, rather than sisterhood; the central issues and concerns of global feminists; and global feminist organizing and activism.

    Participants will travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina for four weeks of classes and service learning.  This program is hosted by University of Buenos Aires and will be the location for lectures in the mornings and guest speakers.  In the afternoons, students will work with different community partners to gain insight into social justice issues in Argentina.  On the weekends, students will explore the city and to take tours to important historical, cultural, and social locations in the greater Buenos Aires region.

 Students on this program should plan to arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina by noon on the starting day of the program in order to be in country to transfer to the hotel.  Please note, check flight schedules carefully before booking.  To arrive by noon on the starting day of this program, fights may have to depart the USA the day before the start of the program.  Students are encouraged not to purchase their flights until after the application deadline and the applicants have been informed that the program has met its minimum numbers.

    This Study Abroad program will include classes in the morning and work in an outreach community partner every afternoon Monday-Friday. The afternoon component is part of the Service Learning requirement in the course and is also part of the course grade.

    Students will register for a total of 3 credit hours by taking WST 4415 – Global and Transnational Feminism during Summer A 2012, dealing with youth, women, environment, and social justice.

    This program is open to undergraduate and graduate students and does not have a Spanish language requirement.  While in Argentina, students are expected to remain engaged in the program’s experiences and try new things.

Please be aware that there may be an arrival/departure tax into Argentina that is not included as part of the program fee. 

Payment Breakdown based upon the minimum number of students:

Payment 1:  $100 (non-refundable)
Payment 2:  $1000
Payment 3:  $1012.50
Payment 4:  $1012.50

• Provide students with an understanding of “global feminism” as theory and praxis.
• Understand the concept of “globalization” and its impact on women at the local level.
• Understand the critiques of Western feminism.
• Comprehend the local challenges faced by women in different world cultures.
• Engage in activism at a local and global level.
• Create an environment where intellectual curiosity and mutual respect flourish.

The following services are included as part of the program fee:

• Shared accommodations in Buenos Aires, Argentina including breakfast.
• City tour of Buenos Aires
• Excursion to Bariloche
• Shared accommodations in Bariloche including full board
• Day excursion to Colonia, Uruguay
• Opportunities for service learning within the community of Buenos Aires
• Airport transfers
• Medical insurance including repatriation
• Round trip air between Buenos Aires and Barlioche, Argentina
• Administrative fee

The following services are not included as part of the program fee:

• Round trip air between Orlando, Florida and Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Passport or visa fees
• Incidentals
• Meals except as listed above
• Currency exchange fees
• Personal travel not associated with the program
• Tips and gratuities for tour guides and private charter buses
• UCF tuition
• Immigration or departure fees into Argentina