Happy International Women’s Day!

The first international women’s day was held in 1911 and for those of you who are not familiar with its history, you can read about it at this link http://www.internationalwomensday.com/about.asp.  Today, on 8th March 2011, the centenary anniversary is being celebrated globally.  It is a good time to reflect on the advancement made in women’s rights over the last 100 years. Women have made considerable economic, political and social achievements around the world. 

Increasing numbers of Muslim women are also achieving positions of leadership.  Muslim women in Britain made history last year with the first Muslim female Minister and the first three Muslim female elected MPs.  However, we still face many challenges as Muslim women are still one of the most disadvantaged groups in society and facing increased hostility particularly due to debates around segregation.  With the rise in religious extremism and increased anti-female rhetoric, there is also a risk the rights we have achieved will be undermined.  Muslim women around the world are putting their lives and freedom on the line to get their voices heard that Islam teaches equality and questioning patriarchal interpretations of religion.  We must too continue to challenge injustice, fight for equality, and build networks to create that critical mass of voices.