The Other in Tradition: A Study of Gender Roles and Power Structures in Javanese Rewang

The Javanese tradition of Rewang exemplifies a spirit of collective action and reciprocal support, manifested during significant events or festivities. The objective of this study is to analyze gender roles within the Rewang tradition. To that end, the study seeks to achieve three primary goals. First, it will analyze the division of tasks and responsibilities based on gender. Second, it will identify potential inequalities in participation and decision-making. Third, it will investigate how gender norms influence the implementation of Rewang. The study employs Simone de Beauvoir's concept of "the Other" and Pierre Bourdieu's concept of Habitus as the theoretical framework. It utilizes a qualitative approach, incorporating descriptive-analytical methods and ethnographic techniques for data collection. The results of the study indicate a distinct gender-based division of labor in Rewang, wherein women are responsible for domestic tasks and men engage in those requiring physical strength. Despite the pivotal role women play in the facilitation of celebrations, their contributions require further evaluation. The practice of Rewang is indicative of and reinforces gender inequalities in society, positioning women as secondary subjects and limiting their choices and opportunities. The study posits that social practices such as Rewang have the potential to reinforce power structures that position women as "the Other," thereby restricting their potential and perpetuating gender inequalities in society.