Deepening democracy: A farm workers’ movement in the Western Cape
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Date
2010
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Abstract
This article explores the internal dynamics and external impact of a South African farm
workers’ movement, Sikhula Sonke. It looks at the extent to which this women-led
‘social movement trade union’ has succeeded in improving the livelihoods of Western Cape
farm workers. Drawing from the organisation’s own aims, it investigates whether the
movement has created a democratic organisational structure, addressed social and economic
inequality on Western Cape farms and effectively challenged unfair labour practices.
The article argues that the movement, although facing historical conditions of
disempowerment, has set up the foundations of an empowering representational structure.
It has begun to address the social challenges of paternalism, patriarchy and racism between
workers and, through an effective use of strategies that target both employers and
government, successfully challenged numerous cases of unfair labour practice. Furthermore,
beyond meeting its immediate aims, there are broader lessons that can be learnt from
Sikhula Sonke.
Description
Keywords
Deepening democracy, Western Cape, Farm workers, Social and economic inequality, Women
Citation
Anciano, F. (2010). Deepening democracy: A farm workers’ movement in the Western Cape. Journal of Southern African Studie,36 ( 3), 674-691