The word shepherd has traditionally been associated with the image of a man with a staff tending his flock alone. This is how Jesus was represented more than two thousand years ago and for many it is still difficult to conceive of a different pastor. This foreshadowing connects with the imaginary and the dynamics of patriarchal societies, over which - and without undermining the remarkable advances of the past decades - the long shadow of inequality still hangs over. Saving all resistance, people like Rocío have continued to bet on their dreams, but it is important to note that there is still a lot of work to be done.
Today, technology shortens distances and connects us with each other around the world. Now it is possible and relatively easy to find and associate with people who share goals, who pull the same thread. In this case we are talking about pastors, but not only. The RAMADERES.CAT collective was born in Catalonia and is having a strong impact on the territory, and even if it is on a small scale, the potential of this group is an inestimable value for each of its components. The project was born two years ago inspired by a similar group, larger and less specific, but today, this grouping exclusively of women is defined by its own character and very marked guidelines that are key to maintaining its effectiveness. Apart from being a woman, another condition to be admitted has to do with the type of livestock practice.
RAMADERES.CAT only supports extensive agriculture - contrary to the industrial system, which concentrates the maximum number of cattle in the smallest possible space. This collective of approximately 70 mothers and daughters has been established as a collaborative platform that offers countless resources: a basic guide for beginning shepherds to overcome the bureaucratic hurdles involved in raising animals, advice on the world of milk and cheese aimed at meat producers, a daily communication that strengthens the feeling of community and the bonds of support, informative talks, commercial advice, and a long et cetera. But above the more obvious benefits is a sense of pride and community that only a non-coed group can provide. And so, without the eminently male history of this profession being able to overshadow the work and efforts of these women, RAMADERES.CAT gives confidence to women who are looking to break the mold and join the ranks of a trade traditionally solitary and masculine as part of a collective that is taking off. //
1TP5 Without shepherds there is no revolution. The five farmers of this collective who are in the Empordà are: Anna de Maçanet de Cabrenys, Anna de Cruïlles, Brigitte de Serinyà, Judit de Gaüses and Rocío de Cabanelles. We present the four that offer their products directly to the consumer.
More information:
https://utemporda.com/ca/detall-revista/at-ramaderescat
