Critical Ecofeminism Book Retreat: A Guided Weekend of Discussion and Community
Join us for a weekend of lively discussion and grounded connection, using Greta Gaard’s Critical Ecofeminism as our starting point. The retreat includes the book, plus Friday and Saturday night accommodations at WEI. This gathering will be a relaxing, invigorating time to re-set, reconnect, and envision and engage with a positive path toward an equitable, sustainable future.
Please enroll in this class at least three weeks in advance of start date to receive the book.
Critical Ecofeminism (2017) asserts that ecofeminism is a “practical movement for social change” and an intersectional framework that recognizes that sexism, racism, and environmental degradation all stem from a single Western “logic of domination.” Gaard argues that it is impossible to address women’s oppression without simultaneously addressing environmental destruction and racism, as they are mutually reinforcing systems. Incorporating queer ecologies and interspecies climate justice, Critical Ecofeminism presents a powerful framework and next steps toward global sustainability.
Led by WEI Director and Professor Emerita Jacquelyn Zita, this retreat is a unique opportunity to explore Critical Ecofeminism together, through discussion sessions, shared meals, and outdoor activities that connect us to the farm and natural ecosystems. Participants will be assigned selected chapters to read in advance of the gathering.
Retreat Structure (finalized closer to the retreat):
- Friday evening: potluck and opening circle
- Saturday morning: breakfast and discussion session positioning the book/context/defining ecofeminism; farm walk.
- Saturday lunch included (farm produce/bread/soup)
- Saturday afternoon: Continued exploration of select chapters and passages of the book
- Saturday evening: Campfire and connection
- Sunday morning: Discussion sessions – closing circle
- Sunday lunch included (farm produce/bread/soup)
All are welcome – WEI classes are open to everyone.
Instructor Bio: A prominent Gender/Women’s Studies scholar and educator, Jacquelyn Zita is the former Chair of the Department of Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies at the University of Minnesota and former national President of the Women’s Studies Association. She serves as WEI’s volunteer Director of Operations and Education, and Farm Director for WEI’s Amador Hill Farm. Dr. Zita holds a BS in Biology and Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Washington University, St. Louis. She brings 20 years of experience running WEI’s education/demonstration CSA farm and extensive knowledge of organic farming, biology of farming, women’s health issues, and gender, environmental and social justice studies. She also directs WEI’s North Circle and Fair Table (formerly Veggie Rx) programs.