Sororidade e redes sociais: a possibilidade de uma aliança entre mulheres dentro das redes digitais

Abstract

This study examines the practice of sorority among women in the virtual group "Vamos Juntas" from Campina Grande, PB. The specific objectives were to investigate the group's formation process, ascertain whether it functions as a platform for internet-based social activism, advocating feminist causes, understand the motivations behind women seeking to form alliances within this platform, identify the primary demands presented to the group, examine the content of highly interactive posts, and conduct a literature review on sorority. The research was prompted by the paucity of studies on sorority practice, the significance of this concept in contemporary feminism, and the growing influence of social networks in women's lives as they seek solidarity and mutual understanding in this digital space. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Data collection occurred in two stages: through semi-structured interviews conducted via audio recordings and written exchanges on WhatsApp with the administrators of the "Vamos Juntas" group, and by analyzing the content of messages posted by group members. Publications from august, september, and october 2022 were used as the reference period for data analysis. Thematic content analysis was employed as the data processing technique. The investigation revealed that the "Vamos Juntas" group underwent a reconfiguration, with issues of domestic violence being addressed privately. Despite this reconfiguration, the group persisted as a strong and supportive environment. Sorority was observed within the group through various means, such as members seeking and offering services, providing voluntary legal advice, offering support in finding housing and transportation for women, and forwarding donations of clothing, food, furniture, among other activities. While feminist activism was primarily evident in posts related to party politics, its presence was comparatively smaller when compared to other demands. The number of likes and comments on posts was also modest in comparison to the group's total number of participants. As a result, the manifestation of sorority appeared relatively active but was considered weak when analyzed in terms of interaction.