Body Politics takes on issues faced by women of color

Body Politics, an award-winning theater production by and about women of color, was presented on four Five College campuses this October.

Early each fall, the Women of Color Leadership Network (WOCLN) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst solicits applications from women of color throughout the Five College community to participate in Body Politics, a two-semester course that involves sharing personal stories through creative writing, movement and dance, culminating with a stage performance.

The results are intense, moving presentations by the participants exploring issues that range from hair texture, skin color and self-esteem to sexuality, cultural identity and violence. For the participants, Body Politics is far more than a stage performance. “It’s amazing the positive transformation we see happening with these women,” says Hind Mari, director of WOCLN.