KOCHI: Anita Dube, the curator of the 2018 Kochi-Muziris Biennale, has said an ‘atmosphere of misogyny’ is prevailing unchallenged in most institutions led by men, including Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF). She was adding her vioce in the #MeToo movement that exposed many men in power for their sexual misconduct.
In a statement posted on KBF’s official Facebook page, she said: “This is in response to the disturbing allegation of sexual harassment against KBF secretary Riyas Komu on social media. There is an atmosphere of misogyny prevailing unchallenged in most institutions led by men, KBF being no exception.”
“As the first woman curator, I will take the issue of women’s empowerment seriously. It informs my curatorial deliberations and I try to practice what I preach,” she said.Anita said Purushamedhavitwam or patriarchy has gone about the business of using women’s bodies, their labour and their intelligence to further its own causes. This is what feminism as a radical consciousness has been questioning.
“The #MeToo Movement is part of this questioning. It’s a flood and the floodgates have been opened. What was considered (for centuries) the perks of masculinity, is being called out today as totally unacceptable to women and a violation of their human rights,” she said.
“I stand in complete solidarity and salute those who are brave enough to put their name at stake to support those who are disempowered and anonymous,” said Dube.
In Riyas Komu stepping down, the Kochi Biennale Foundation has taken remedial action and has begun the process of structural change, taking into consideration suggestions from the employees and the curatorial team.
“I take this as an opportunity for everyone to reflect and contribute to the strengthening of KBF. Institutions are hard to build and it would be foolish to pull one down and wiser to turn a mirror to its face,” she said.