Solidarity in Anti-GBV Praxis: Positing a Schelerian/ Frommian Conception of Solidarity Against GBV

This paper posits a new approach to solidarity against GBV, drawing from phenomenology and critical theory. Pumla Dineo Gqola proposes that directly interfering in acts of gender-based violence (GBV) is necessary to stem the tide of GBV. I argue that a particular type of solidarity is needed for this mode of praxis, termed direct interference, to be effective. This type of solidarity can be found in the works of phenomenologist Max Scheler and critical theorist Erich Fromm, who both argue that true solidarity can only occur when individuals recognise each other and themselves as individuals, while also recognising their shared group identity. True solidarity involves not only a responsibility towards the group, but also self-responsibility and mutual responsibility with other individuals in that group. It is this kind of solidarity which is needed if direct interference is to live up to its potential as an effective mode of praxis against GBV. This is because such a mode of solidarity fosters the recognition of other’s individuality and responsibility towards each other as individuals, while recognising that there is a shared group of women and other potential victims of GBV, who share a co-experience of the threat of GBV.