August 9, 2018

Tweet-A-Thon: A Conversation About Online Harassment And Marginalisation

On August 8, Breakthrough interviewed Gertrude Lamare on Twitter, to ask her about the Khasi Lineage Law, in which any Khasi woman who marries a non-Khasi man will lose her Khasi status and all privileges and benefits as a member of the Khasi tribe. She also talked about of speaking out...

Dr. Anita

Sharma , Campaign Ambassador

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On August 8, Breakthrough interviewed Gertrude Lamare on Twitter, to ask her about the Khasi Lineage Law, in which any Khasi woman who marries a non-Khasi man will lose her Khasi status and all privileges and benefits as a member of the Khasi tribe. She also talked about of speaking out online and what it means to express one’s marginalization of the internet. Read on below!

We'll start with a conversation with @gertrudelamare in 10 mins. We're talking about what its like to talk about one's marginalisation online, the new Khasi lineage law and why she was recently targeted online. #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

We're starting with our chat now! Welcome, @gertrudelamare! #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

You have recently come under fire for talking about the new Khasi lineage law. What was the existing practice before this law? What are the changes proposed by this law? #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

According to the Bill, a woman who marries a non-Khasi loses her right to identify as Khasi, to claim the scheduled tribe position and all the constitutional privileges that come with it.

— Gertrude D. Lamare (@gertrudelamare) August 8, 2018

What was the practice before this law was accepted by the Assembly? #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

The bill is currently with the Assembly after having been sent back by the Governor who demanded a revision of certain clauses.

— Gertrude D. Lamare (@gertrudelamare) August 8, 2018

Is there a large scale opposition to this bill? #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

There is an opposition to the bill, mostly by women, who feel that they are believe that they are used as scapegoats for the so-called protection and sustenance of the community.

— Gertrude D. Lamare (@gertrudelamare) August 8, 2018

Why did you choose to talk about this bill on social media? #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

The common point made is not only against our position vis-a-vis the Bill but against us speaking out as women.

— Gertrude D. Lamare (@gertrudelamare) August 8, 2018

Our #standWithMe campaign is about having gender-inclusive safer spaces online. What has been your experience talking about marginalisation online?

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

I would say social media helps 2 provide a space but it comes with other risks as women. I am appreciative of counter arguments but it is more about how counter arguments are put forth. It is so easy 4 some people to slip into abusive language rather than rely on healthy debates

— Gertrude D. Lamare (@gertrudelamare) August 8, 2018

How do you think asserting one's caste/gender/ ethnic identity can lead to online harassment? #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

In a context where majoritarian cultures and communities continue 2 consciously or unconsciously assert their privileges, I think ethnic, caste and gender identities need 2 sharpen and survive bcuz, equality and equity does not come from a derecognition of difference.

— Gertrude D. Lamare (@gertrudelamare) August 8, 2018

What does expressing your marginalisation entail on social media? #StandWithMe

— Breakthrough (@INBreakthrough) August 8, 2018

I think social media helps to build solidarities, even amidst all the hate. I have used social media as one important step towards discussing issues, which could evolve in2 ground politics. The attacks R also interesting becuz they reveal so much about the ground realities.

— Gertrude D. Lamare (@gertrudelamare) August 8, 2018