VOICED : Divisive legacy of Senegal's female traders 'signares'

The video explores the work of Senegalese fashion designer India Dieppe, who recreates the outfits of the Signares, influential women in 18th and 19th-century Senegal. These women, often in temporary marriages with European merchants, played significant roles in social life. Despite their historical importance, their stories are underappreciated today. Efforts by individuals like Aminata Soul aim to preserve and document this unique history, emphasizing the need to recognize the contributions of these women beyond mere folklore.

Who is India Dieppe and what is her role in preserving history?

• A Senegalese fashion designer who recreates historical outfits

• A musician promoting traditional Senegalese music

• A local artist creating modern art pieces

• A French historian documenting European history

What were the Signares known for in the 18th and 19th centuries?

• Inventing new fashion trends

• Leading military campaigns

• Dominating social life and bridging cultural gaps

• Being outcast as concubines

How do India Dieppe and her students celebrate the Signares today?

• By creating documentaries

• By writing books about them

• By modeling traditional outfits in public

• By organizing music festivals

What is a major challenge in preserving the history of the Signares?

• Lack of interest from the public

• Insufficient historical records

• Competition from other cultural events

• Opposition from local authorities

What role does Aminata Soul play in the preservation of Signares' history?

• She is a political leader advocating for women's rights

• She is a custodian documenting their history

• She is a fashion designer

• She organizes cultural festivals