I am not a feminist but...

I am not a feminist, but I am an advocate for justice and equity for all members of society: women, men, children, people of all races and faiths, the poor and the oppressed.

 

In my understanding, feminists today are still fighting for women’s rights, as are all other types of advocates on behalf of other populations.  Yet, as a young Muslim Palestinian-Canadian woman, I am so honoured and humbled by how my faith, over 1400 years ago, brought justice to all members of society: especially women.

 

Today, Muslim women are seen by some as oppressed and backward; yet, I feel quite the contrary.  I feel liberated, empowered, and ultimately blessed.

 

I feel liberated because wearing my headscarf encourages others to deal with me according to my character and intellect as opposed to my physical appearance.

 

I feel empowered because Islam gave me the rights to knowledge, to handle my own financial matters, to inherit, to take part in the political and social sphere, and to freely choose my husband, amongst other rights, in a time where women were denied and in some cases, are still denied these rights.

 

I feel blessed because I believe in God and in a faith which brings justice and equity for all members of our society.

 

(Delivered at the Nobel Women’s Initiative Event in Ottawa)

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