Date of Graduation

Spring 5-21-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

College/School

School of Education

Department

International and Multicultural Education

Program

International & Multicultural Education EdD

First Advisor

Dr. Susan R. Katz

Second Advisor

Dr. David Donahue

Third Advisor

Dr. Stephen Zunes

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Monisha Bajaj

Abstract

Algeria’s history, spanning 132 years of French occupation, an independence struggle, and postcolonial development, has been well-documented as an inspirational fight for liberation and democracy. Despite women's essential roles alongside men in the independence movement and rebuilding of modern Algeria, women’s contributions have been largely excluded from prevalent history narratives. The purpose of this study was to investigate women’s views on historical representation while providing space for a more inclusive, gender-equitable picture of women’s ongoing involvement, activism, and visions for Algeria’s future. The study employed an oral history methodology, interviewing 11 Algerian women. Three themes emerged in the interviews: (1) Reframing Historical Narratives, (2) Amplifying the Voices of Algerian Women, and (3) Navigating a Changing Algeria and Shaping an Equitable Future provided context for discussions and interviews. Third World Feminism and Decoloniality Theory offered relevant frameworks for examining the Algerian setting. The major findings included: (1) curriculum reforms needed to honor the legacies of Algeria’s female freedom fighters and unacknowledged activists; (2) calls for equal representation of Algerian women in media, politics and public life; (3) gender equity, legal equality and equal opportunity as non-negotiable rights; (4) acknowledgement of violence, trauma and a need for healing associated with Algerian political contexts; (5) education as a pathway to women’s autonomy and economic contribution; and (6) Algerian women’s empowerment through activism and democratic aspirations. Collectively, these findings highlight important societal transitions as modernity, women’s empowerment, and new definitions of feminism challenge Algeria’s traditional, patriarchal, conservative culture. This study advances scholarship on women’s activism as a catalyst for social change across generations. Study results can promote new local/ national initiatives, centering women as equals in a more democratic modern Algeria.

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Available for download on Thursday, May 22, 2036

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