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As an Azorean immigrant who grew up on Davis Street, the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, or Madeira Feast as many of us know it, was and still remains one of the ways that all of the Amarals, Mellos, Borges, and the rest of our proud stubborn lot stay connected to our heritage. No, Madeira and the Azores Islands are not the same, but we share pride in our Portuguese culture.
From my first feast in 1984 to my most recent in 2023 I have seen the women in their smocks, or “batas,” working in that early August heat preparing for what will be four days where people from all over the country come to enjoy all the beautiful contributions that Madeira makes to our culture. I have fond memories of seeing these women in the church, in the club, and in the barracas. But these same women who make this event happen are not allowed to serve on the Feast committee simply because of their gender.
As we wind down Women’s History Month, it is disheartening to confront a stark reminder that gender inequality still persists in our society and in our backyard. The decision to exclude a committed group of women, including former City Councilor Jane Gonsalves and attorney Tara George, from serving on the Feast committee is a step backwards and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about women’s capabilities.
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Some may argue that tradition dictates the composition of the organization and its committees, but tradition should never be an excuse for discrimination. Progress and evolution are inherent to any vibrant community, and that includes reassessing and challenging outdated practices. On the island of Madeira, women can and do serve in the leadership and planning of their celebration. In 1998 the Clube S.S. Madeirense recognized the shortage of “festeiros” and amended their bylaws to allow “sons of mothers,” or men who were Madeiran on their maternal side, to serve. But in 2024 women are still not allowed.
The women who want to serve are professional, talented, and love their heritage. They bring unique perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table, enriching the decision making process and ensuring that diverse voices are heard. And yes, they can load a barrel of wine onto a dolly.
Denying women the opportunity to serve on the committee sends a damaging message to the young girls and women in our community. It tells them that their contributions are not valued and that their aspirations are limited by their gender. We owe it to future generations to make a change.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a champion of gender equality, said “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made. It shouldn’t be that women are the exception.” These words resonate powerfully today as we advocate for the inclusion of women in all aspects of society, including the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament. Let’s heed the words of Ginsburg and ensure that women are an integral part of shaping our collective future. It’s time to make room at the planning table, and at the barracas, for everyone.
Carmen Amaral is board president of Women’s Fund SouthCoast.
The feast is truly a jewel in the summer calendar. Steeped in traditions and memories, it is a celebration like no other. Young and old, rich and poor, neighbors and newcomers, an amazing potpourri of sights an sounds.
Traditions serve us by enhancing, encouraging, acknowledging our rich New Bedford history. We are all Portuguese for a day.
Ms. Amaral outlines and illuminates the many reasons and problems with excluding women from the Committee.
Here’s the kicker. Traditions are meant to serve us, not confine us in a static set of rules. We can still have the amazing feast but add the wonderful voices of the women who are 50 percent stakeholders.