Sisterhood Network: Weaving empowerment for Naga women

Dimapur, April 9 (MExN): Across Nagaland, indigenous women are emerging as key drivers of community revitalization, seamlessly weaving together cultural heritage and sustainable economic practices to carve out pathways to empowerment and indigenous women’s economic autonomy.

As centuries-old traditions face increasing threats from globalization and modern homogenization, these women are reclaiming their cultural legacy through innovative entrepreneurship, an update received here stated From handloom weaving and indigenous food production rooted in ancestral knowledge, their initiatives are not only safeguarding identity and tradition but also creating new avenues for income generation and economic self-reliance.

Among few, Sisterhood Network is one such non-profit organization based in Dimapur, Nagaland “dedicated to empowering women, children, and marginalized communities.” Established in 2001, Sisterhood Network is guided by the motto ‘Helping One Another’ and they believe in “fostering self-reliance, dignity and hope for a brighter tomorrow.”

Today, Sisterhood Network empowers indigenous women from various communities in 19 villages across Nagaland by supporting traditional economic activities like loin loom weaving, indigenous food production and jewelry-making, granting them economic independence and breaking traditional gender role constraints. 

Beyond financial empowerment, these initiatives are also igniting a cultural renaissance. Community events like the Wednesday Market Day in Dimapur have evolved into vibrant platforms where women artisans showcase their crafts and traditional cuisines, fostering renewed awareness and pride in Naga heritage, especially among younger generations. 

With the theme ‘Revitalizing Indigenous Economies: Empowering Women through Cultural Heritage and Economic Autonomy in Nagaland,’ Sisterhood Network organised a sales day event at Supermarket, Dimapur on April 9.

Amplifying the spirit of grassroots resilience, Secretary of Beisumpuikam Women Society, Abuale said, “Women are not just weaving and producing food, we are sustaining our identity and cultural heritage.” 

“Our work not only enables us to educate our children and support our households, but it has also positioned us as peacemakers. By wearing and gifting our hand woven cultural attire during times of conflict, we convey respect, identity, and a deep desire for harmony, symbols that speak louder than words in our communities,” Abuale who is also a weaver and farmer added. 

“Women should stand united in love and strength, continuing their work with unwavering spirit. Women Collectives should be supported to grow and thrive,” said Kusone, Mhatho Luse Group, Jalukiezangdi. 

Sisterhood Network has played a pivotal role by forming and supporting women’s groups, facilitating their travel from remote villages to participate in these markets, and ensuring they have access to space, opportunity and meaningful community engagement. 

“These activities serve as a means of preserving culture, fostering a sense of identity and community resilience. Through engagement in economic and cultural endeavors, women assert their independence, challenge societal norms, and make decisions about their lives, leading to greater empowerment and inclusivity within their communities,” said Arenzungla Jamir, Sisterhood Network.