A work examining the contribution of women to the South African anti‑apartheid movement has been awarded the Joel Gregory Book Prize by the Canadian Association of African Studies. The prizewinning book, National Liberation and the Political Life of Exile: Sex, Gender, and Nation in the Struggle against Apartheid, was published by Ohio University Press in 2025 and is authored by Rachel Sandwell, an assistant professor of history in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Focus of the research
The book explores how women in exile influenced the African National Congress (ANC) as it operated outside South Africa between 1960 and 1990. According to coverage of the award, Rachel Sandwell argues that women were active participants in shaping the movement’s internal debates and its vision of a post‑apartheid nation.
“a future where men and women, Black and white, were equal and liberated to live well,”
The author examines how the ANC in exile sought to present itself as inclusive and representative of all South Africans, and she attributes a significant role to women in defining national identity and ideas about equality.
Why the prize matters
The Joel Gregory Book Prize is granted by the Canadian Association of African Studies to recognise outstanding scholarship on Africa. The award highlights the academic impact of the book and its contribution to understanding the gendered dimensions of liberation movements.
- Author: Rachel Sandwell, assistant professor of history
- Title: National Liberation and the Political Life of Exile: Sex, Gender, and Nation in the Struggle against Apartheid
- Publisher: Ohio University Press (2025)
- Award: Joel Gregory Book Prize, Canadian Association of African Studies
- Period studied: ANC in exile, 1960–1990
Local relevance
Although the book and the prize originate from international academic circles, the story is of local interest. It highlights contemporary scholarship bearing the Sandwell name and may be of particular note to residents interested in history, gender studies and the global dimensions of anti‑racist movements.
Summary table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Author | Rachel Sandwell |
| Book | National Liberation and the Political Life of Exile |
| Publisher | Ohio University Press (2025) |
| Award | Joel Gregory Book Prize, Canadian Association of African Studies |
| Subject period | ANC in exile, 1960–1990 |
The award brings renewed attention to scholarship that places gender at the centre of liberation histories. Readers interested in following up can consult the College of Arts and Sciences announcement for further details about the book and the prize.
