Sandra Guerrero, visiting assistant professor of sociology, presented findings of her research on the role of women in the formation, consolidation and legalization of squatter settlements in Latin America, at the National Association of Hispanic and Latino Studies in Baton Rouge Louisiana, Feb. 12-17. Along with their pivotal role in community management, poor urban women have also been involved in processes of self-help building, including the design of their own houses. Devoid of any ideology, their participation primarily responded to the pressing need of providing a roof for their families, but ironically, such contribution evolved into a process of consciousness-raising that over the years has led to the formation of neighborhood feminist organizations, as well as greater visibility and political participation. As a consequence of female settlers' resolute, non-remunerated work, women, their houses, neighborhoods and, by extension, the built environment of their cities have all gradually been transformed.
