Putting on the pants

Being bossy isn't a character trait that is always warmly welcomed, especially in a culture as traditional as Tanzania's, especially when it's a woman. However, during my time here, I often find myself assuming the position in command, which has always come natural to me. In high school, I hated group work because I always knew I would volunteer to take most of it. In college, I was nicknamed "Fidel" for my dictatorship during rush season (but really, I did get us the best girls). I guess I've always figured, I'd rather get something done myself, than risk someone else doing a less than superior job. I'm the first to acknowledge that my bossy demeanor isn't always my most likable trait, but hey, everybody has unlikable traits sometimes, and I'm pretty content with this one being mine.

Coming into this trip, it never crossed my mind that this bossy trait would clash with Tanzanian customs. In hindsight, of course, it should been obvious. In a culture where women aren't supposed to wear the pants literally, they most likely aren't supposed to figuratively. Well, the American in me kept the pants on, not despite, but rather in spite of this cultural oppression. My first day at Mtanga, my colleagues and I discussed our 50-something students and how we should conduct lessons. It was proposed that we teach one large class and each teacher leads a quarter of the day. I countered that we should split them into two classes and co-teach. The three colleagues met my suggestion with a burst of laughter. I could practically hear, "Tsk tsk, silly girl!" For the first time, I realized I was the lone female at the school, something that hadn't occurred to me because of the equal dynamics I'm used to at home.

It was this initial moment, this outright ridicule, that has pushed me to keep up with my Bossy American Girl character. Were there times I should have censored my demands? Of course, I am a guest after all! But, as if turns out, bossy people are usually pretty stubborn, as well. Needless to say, we split Form 1 into two reasonably sized classes. For the past six weeks, I have planned and implemented all of my own lessons, while whoever I co-teach with that day takes the dormant role. I can't complain about doing more work than all of my colleagues combined, because my work has created excitement among my students that is so rare in the education system. I've created a student centered classroom, I praise them, I reward them, and most importantly, I do not humiliate them.

It may have taken some cultural adjustment, but the local teachers have definitely come to respect my perseverance. I've seen our conversations develop from two parties fighting for command, to two equals discussing possibilities. I can't always condone my bossy, stubborn attitude, but when it's to ensure gender equality and promote better education, I won't be apologetic for it, either. My Tanzanian skirts can't keep me from wearing the pants!