(ANS) –  “We have to think about human relationships that welcome, accept, and are nourished by the richness of diversity. This is stressful in our interpersonal relationships because diversity may lead us to think about divisions or the temptation to uniformity (…) the issue is how to simultaneously sustain communion and unity in distinction.” Andrea Sánchez Ruiz, rapporteur.

As the RED América Social Salesiana (RASS), we promote opportunities to strengthen the capacities of the different actors in Salesian social works in America. From May 22-to 29, we developed the seminar “Transformative Perspectives, Dignity and Gender Relations,” involving more than 100 educators, administrative staff, managers, and professionals in the area of psychology and social work from social works located in different countries in America. Conducted through the Zoom platform, this formation opportunity aimed to offer a space for anthropological reflection to promote best practices that promote the appreciation of diversity and the transformation of inequality, especially in contexts of vulnerability.

During the first day of the seminar, exploring biblical texts, we reflected on human reality from the perspective of Holy Scripture and how, despite the cultural and patriarchal conditioning of the time, there are clear foundations that support the dignity and equality of all human beings, without gender distinction. The constant updating and reinterpretation of these texts allow us to promote an inclusive and liberating vision in line with the message of Jesus and the essence of Christianity, seeking to discover and realize God’s dream for humanity.

The second day included a brief historical look at the concept of gender and a review of how stereotypes operate in subordinate practices and relationships. In this session, topics such as the inclusive anthropological model, reciprocal links, and Trinitarian human relationships were analyzed. Regarding the latter, it was said that “living human relationships in a Trinitarian way will involve building on what we are and have in common, without differences dividing us. Thismeans a reciprocal self-giving and a communion in love.” The internal dynamics of gender relations were addressed, where there is true reciprocity, which not only implies coexistence but also living for others, in others, and thanks to others.

Andrea Sánchez Ruiz, a graduate in Systematic Theology, specializing in Family Pastoral and Psychoanalysis and Gender, and theological advisor to the Animating Commission for the Women in Society Axis and in the Church of CELAM, CLAR, and Caritas, developed an interactive workshop where participants shared their opinions, criteria, and commitments, among which we highlight:

–      “Mainstreaming the gender perspective in development projects.”

–      “Preparing myself in these areas so as not to just assume but understand these things more deeply.”

–       “Reproducing the Trinitarian God in our forms of relationship.”

–      “Continuing in the re-education process, providing guidance on how to dignify without creating differences among young people.”

This formation event not only enriched our theological and anthropological understanding of gender perspective but also challenged us to apply these principles in our daily lives, promoting a more just and inclusive world. In addition, it motivates us to move forward with the challenge of reconceptualizing our interpersonal relationships and building a society that celebrates and is enriched through diversity, especially in situations of vulnerability.

To access the seminar recordings, click here.

To access the seminar material, click here.