Please visit the Innocence Project today.

***

 “’Mabrouk! Congratulations!’

Early morning light pours into the bedroom. In the distance, a rooster is crowing… Eyes wide, I look around at the disorder of the bedroom: the oil lamp has rolled over to the door, and the brown dress lies in a heap on the floor like an old dishrag. And there he is – what a wahesh – what a monster! On the rumpled sheet, I see a little streak of blood.

‘Congratulations!’ echoes my sister-in-law. With a sly smile, she studies the red stain. I can’t say a word. I feel paralyzed. Then my mother-in-law bends down to pick me up as if I were a package. Why didn’t she come earlier, when I needed her help? Now, in any case, it’s too late – unless she was his accomplice in what he just did to me?

…’Mabrouk!’ both women say together…”

Nujood Ali is just twelve years old. Yet this young girl from Yemen has already demonstrated the kind of courage most adults can#8217;t imagine possessing.

At the age of eight, Nujood’s father forced her into a marriage with a 30 year old man. Nujood was repeatedly and violently raped by her husband.

Nujood pleaded with her family for help. Rather than protecting her, Nujood’s father beat her – and told her that she would find no way out of her situation. The family’s honor was at stake – and it was Nujood’s responsibility, he felt, to preserve it through being a subservient young bride.

After Nujood had exhausted all hopes for support from her immediate family, she sought out the advice of her father’s second wife, Dowla. Dowla told her that if she needed help, she had to go out on her own. She would have to get herself to court, and demand a divorce.

So she did.

On April 2nd, 2008, Nujood left home, hailed a cab, and became the first girl in Yemen’s history to ever appear alone in court to request a divorce. With the help of Judge Muhammad Al-Qathi and attorney Shada Nasser – Nujood was granted an annulment. Her case has brought worldwide attention to the issue of child marriage, and has inspired action to end the practice. For any person #8211; young or old, male or female #8211; who has ever doubted his or her own resilience - may Nujood#8217;s story serve not just as an inspiration #8211; but also as a call to action. No child should have to live through what she endured. It is our responsibility to make safety for all children a reality. 

“My divorce has changed my life. I don’t cry anymore. My bad dreams are starting to go away. I feel stronger, as if all these ordeals have toughened me. When I go out in the street, sometimes women in the neighborhood call to me, congratulating me and shouting ‘Mabrouk!’ – a word once tainted by evil memories, but which I know like to hear again. And shouted by women I don’t even know! I blush, but deep down I’m so proud.” – Nujood Ali, June 2008.

To learn more about Nujood Ali, please read her memoir, released just this year. The above quotes are excerpts from the book.

For more about the movement to end child marriage, please see these links:

* The United Nations Population Fund

* International Women#8217;s Health Coalition

* International Center for Research on Women

#8212;#8212;#8211;

Islam#8217;s new Kartinis: Introduction

                                  March, 2010

***

Raquel: What does Kartini’s legacy mean for you as a young Indonesian woman?

Nurish: Raden Ayu Kartini is the most popular symbol of the emancipation of Indonesian women and a national heroine.

Despite her enormous popularity as a national heroine for women, there are historians in some circles who question the legitimacy of her high ranking. They feel that Indonesia doesn’t give as much recognition to other great women like Dewi Sartika, Sultanah Seri Ratu Tajul, and others. Their complaint is specifically about race and ethnicity. They believe that Kartini was declared a heroine for all women because she was Javanese.

On Kartini Day, celebrated annually on the 21st of April, the country celebrates the life and legacy of Raden Ayu Kartini. For me, every woman of valor deserves to be called “Kartini.”

Kartini is a symbol of women’s emancipation, achievement and equality. Today’s Kartinis – Islam’s new Kartinis – can be Javanese, Arabian, Chinese, American, African and more.

 

Raquel: You work on so many important issues #8211; but I know that education is one of your greatest passions. Can you tell me about how and why you decided to work on alternative education?

Nurish: I have taught from the kindergarten to university level. I have learned a lot about educational development, particularly in the field of alternative education. Indonesia is still considered part of the third world, and we are facing significant problems in education. Kompas, a major Indonesian daily newspaper, reported in March of 2010 that over 5 million school-age children are currently not enrolled in school. Most of these children are female.

Given the high numbers of students either not able to attend school at all, or to achieve higher levels of education, it is important to me to do something constructive for them. I am seeking to open an alternative school. It is a slow process, especially given my commitment to doing so without dependence on traditional fundraising. I am committed to funding much of the project myself. I work very hard, even selling textiles in my village, to make honest, halal money.

Nurish: My friends and I founded an organization called ABINITIO in 2008. We began work on an online magazine with the goal of developing a successful small business, and hiring students who need employment so that they can support themselves while getting an education.

Once our business is well-established, we will open a school for alternative education in a village or rural area, where education is most difficult to obtain.

My ideas for our alternative schooling program differ greatly from the education currently available in government and traditional schools. I firmly disagree with the educational system in public schools – the curriculum is unreasonably stressful and student life is very difficult. Some teachers hit their students as a form of punishment. I believe that is counter to the spirit of education.

I believe in learning outside of the classroom. By remaining isolated in the classroom, teachers can’t be fully aware of students’ talents and potential. We will create outdoor learning environments as well as media laboratories for students. Through these alternative learning environments and a holistic approach to education – free of violence and needless pressure, students will develop responsible relationships with society and the environment. It is also my hope that with a more student-centered approach like this, the school will graduate individuals who are more compassionate and aware.

Raquel: One of our first conversations was about women and the environment. Can you share with readers some of the connections you#8217;ve found between environmental damage in Indonesia and the welfare of women?

Nurish: In our conversation, I was referring to the case of the Sidoarjo mud flow.

(*Raquel#8217;s note: Lapindo, an oil and gas company, was drilling near the Sidoarjo mud volcano. The volcano erupted, releasing enough mud to fill a dozen Olympic-sized swimming pools. Despite controversy, the international community has come to an overwhelming consensus that the volcano’s eruption is connected to Lapindo’s drilling activities. The mud flow, currently contained by levees, still continues to intermittently disrupt local highways and villages. There are concerns that the volcano may erupt again in the future.)

Nurish: Upon learning of this incident, I wrote a paper titled “The Death of Ethics,” in which I discussed environmental ethics. The Sidoarjo incident was not a natural disaster, but an environmental one caused by human beings. It destroyed thousands of hectares of rice fields, homes, industries, mosques and more. Women and children suffered the most from the devastation, and we are seeing that this is often the case.

 

Raquel: What are some other connections you see between women, the environment, and industrialization?

Nurish: I think the issues of industrialization and consumption are also women’s issues. Women’s lives are often controlled by the cultural, social, religious and political demands on them. For example, women are expected to be physically beautiful. To meet these demands and to be accepted in the work force and social sphere, women need to spend a lot on products and services to enhance their physical appearance. Though it is the women consuming these products, they are actually being controlled by the forces insisting that they be “consumed” for their bodies and looks. In short and to be frank, women’s bodies are regularly assaulted by the cosmetics, fashion and other industries.

 

Raquel: I have enormous respect for you as a woman of faith. How does Islam inspire you to create positive change?

 

Nurish: Islam teaches me to learn with other people and other groups. For me, Islam represents unity, and not just among Muslims. We have to be respectful, tolerant, and peaceful with others. Lakum dinukum waliyadin means “To you be your way, and to me mine” (Qur’an 109:06). This verse promotes tolerance toward other religions and other groups.  All human beings are family, and this is my understanding of the essence of Islamic teaching.

Raquel: Do you have a Muslim female heroine? Who is she, and why?

Nurish: Surely, I do. The first one I must mention is my mother. It is because of her that I am here and that I have survived – and her spirit is always with me. Her patience drives me to be a better woman.

Secondly, I dearly admire Nawal El Saadawi and her books inspire me. I don’t know her personally, but I like her ideas. She is very amazing.  Her book, Woman at Point Zero, really inspires me.

——–

Islam’s new Kartinis: Introduction

                                  March, 2010: Valerie Khan Yusufzai

                                  April, 2010: Nujood Ali

Welcome to the #8220;Islam#8217;s new Kartinis#8221; series! As explained in my last post, this column #8211; originally published at MarcGopin.com - will focus on Muslim women from around the world who work to bring positive incremental change to their communities and beyond. This month, we#8217;re featuring Valerie Khan Yusufzai, chairperson of the Acid Survivors Foundation of Pakistan.

 Raquel: Have you always been interested in human rights work?

Valerie:  I grew up in a family where the ideas of freedom, thoughtfulness and fighting for what you believe is right were very much present. My great-grandparents resisted against the Germans in the First World War. My great-grandfather even received the Legion D’Honneur for excellent military conduct. This is the highest distinction for a French soldier. My grandfather, at age 19, joined the clandestine French forces to fight the Nazis during the Second World War.  His legacy is a gift to me – a reminder of the absolute necessity of fighting for human rights and enlightened values in the face of tyranny.

Since my youth, I not only understood but felt that we all had a role to play in producing a better society. A few of the first books that I remember as a child – given to me by my mother #8211; were books about the religions of the world, a cartoon book about French history with the declaration of human rights as a preamble, and a book explaining the miracle of human reproduction.  I was also taught the value of human rights through enlightened French philosophers of the 18th century like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot.  I think I gained a deep respect for human beings through all of these readings.

Later, when I joined a Catholic private school at the age of 12, I discovered the simple happiness of providing help and support. I started my “social work” as a volunteer at the age of 11 and have never stopped.

Raquel:  What brought you to work with acid attack survivors in particular? 

Valerie:  I was blessed with a passionate but occasionally very difficult life. I have never forgotten those who have been there to support me through life’s challenges. I also remember the rare moments when I was not as well supported.  Those difficult times further motivated me to always be a support for others.

I believe in the cycle and process of learning. I believe our experiences are meant to teach us how to move forward and be better to one another.  Often, society tries to dehumanize us – to make us forget the humanity of others and also abandon it in ourselves. We have to re-learn humanity: how to really see people, really listen to their problems. I think this dehumanization is one of the greatest ills we are facing.

One of the most important learning experiences I’ve had was with acid survivors.  I was living in Lahore, and was a customer at a beauty parlor. At the parlor was a woman with tissue expanders (an expander is a way of developing fresh skin to be used for skin grafting. A silicone balloon is placed under the skin, which is expanded over time. As the balloon grows, the surrounding skin stretches and grows. Later, the expander is removed and the excess new skin is used for grafting.)  My seven year old son was with me, and asked: “Mummy, what happened to the lady?” I had no answer. I thought maybe she had cancer, that she had a tumor.

A few days later, I went to see the owner of the salon and asked her about the women there. This is how I learned about acid violence in Pakistan.  The owner had an NGO and said she was working to get treatment for these patients.

Subsequently, the owner contacted me and offered me the position of coordinator for her NGO. I initially told her that this was not my area of expertise. I was an educator and volunteer, but I had no experience in managing developing organizations.

She insisted.  I told her that I would think about it. For a week I had nightmares.  I realized that maybe this was my call to action. Leaving my previous job and starting to work with acid attack survivors was the biggest decision I’d ever made.

Unfortunately, three months later, I discovered that the funds for this organization were being used in a suspicious manner, and I suspected that funds were being embezzled.  I quit.

In the meantime, we were visited by Acid Survivors Trust International.  They told me that if I really wanted to help acid survivors, I should not give up. They trusted me – and advised me to create a board and register our new NGO – Acid Survivors Foundation of Pakistan. They had the funds and were willing to help get the initiative off the ground. 

It took my husband and me one month to decide to start this new organization.  We started it in Islamabad with a dedicated group of activists. I will never regret that decision #8211; not when I see women transformed and living happily again. Not when I think about how much I’ve learned, and how much this hast taught me about humility.

Raquel:  Is there a common thread you’re noticing in the cases you’re seeing? 

Valerie: Yes. The commonalities include violence sourced in poverty, lack of education and feudal /tribal cultural systems.

Raquel:  What does the ASF do, and how do you reach victims of acid violence? (For example, is there a networking relationship with hospitals or communities to contact you?)

Valerie: ASF provides comprehensive rehabilitation services to acid survivors, such as medical services, psychological and social counseling, and socio-economic assistance. We also provide legal aid. These services are provided by staff and volunteers as well as pro-bono doctors, specialists and lawyers.

To reach survivors, we have developed a notification and referral system. Our field officer and volunteers are linked to journalists, social workers, hospitals, police stations, government institutions, shelters and other NGOs.  When a case has occurred, or an incident has been identified as an acid attack, the appropriate individuals and entities are notified so that the victim can begin receiving services immediately in the most efficient and comprehensive way possible.

ASF also advocates for a new legal framework to be established in order to monitor and regulate the sale of acid and to punish perpetrators of acid attacks. We also seek assistance in securing rehabilitation services for survivors.

Raquel:  Can you tell me more about the involvement of men in your fight against acid violence? How do these men come to be involved, and how do they add to the movement?

Valerie: Men have been present in our fight against acid attacks from day one.

To begin with, my husband is the one who fought to get us registered as an NGO – without bribes or illegitimate practices others have used. We have male directors, male doctors and pro-bono lawyers, and a male field officer.

Salim Mahmood Salim was the secretary of the Ministry of Women’s Development at the time of our founding.  All of these men help to provide and identify support, mobilize media, assist with fundraising events (such as coordinating a fund-raising rock concert at no cost to our organization), and more. Additionally, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court  officially condemned acid violence and asked the Pakistani parliament to act on it from a legislative perspective.

With men on board, supporting you at the highest level, you are better able to reach communities that follow patriarchal traditions. They do not feel threatened. Rather, they are more likely to join you in creating constructive, sustainable changes. When men reach out to other men, they feel proud rather than emasculated. If other men are active, they actually see involvement as their duty. When men support women, our empowerment will arise – naturally and peacefully.

Finally, it is important to note that Pakistan, like many countries, has a male-dominated power structure.  Engaging men on this issue ensures that we have a constructive, realistic strategy and approach to change. I also must mention that having men on board is valuable from a safety perspective.

Raquel:  There is no denying that stories of acid violence are deeply troubling and the attacks themselves devastating. From what sources do you, personally, derive your hope? How does the organization as a whole maintain a forward-thinking, positive approach in this very difficult work?

Valerie: Raquel, I am a fighter. Ask anyone – that is the first adjective they’d use to describe me. I simply do not give up. At the same time, I am patient.

I believe that if you are fighting for a good cause, God does not let you down.  One must concentrate on the achievements – and use that as fuel to tackle all obstacles.

As the chairperson of the organization, it is my job and responsibility to generate positive energy. I need to be able to listen when people are down – and to motivate and mobilize them. When my colleagues need a break, they get one. Direct work with our psychotherapist is not just important for the survivors, but also for us. Clinical supervision and regular check-ins guarantee that none of us suffers from burnout.

We are dedicated to a collaborative approach, and positive feedback and team-building are very much part of our management strategy. We promote and salute both effort and results .  One person’s victory or success is a team victory. We are very much like a family, and we recognize the individual efforts of each family member. We are also all activists – and that spirit drives us.

Beyond our organizational approach, we have other reasons to remain hopeful. Every day, we see survivors getting better  #8211; physically, mentally and emotionally. They’re rebuilding they’re lives. They’re happy and proud of their achievements. Nazeraan, for example, is blind and disfigured. She is fighting for custody of her two daughters. While she naturally feels sorrow and shares that with us, she is working at learning Braille and sewing. She wants to make a new life for herself and to become a role model.

Nazeraan shows the world that acid may burn you – but it cannot burn you entirely. Your spirit and your will still make you exist as a woman. When the survivors themselves are so full of hope, how can we not follow their example?

Raquel:  What are the greatest challenges facing the work of the Acid Survivors Foundation? The economy presents obvious obstacles. But are there especially pressing social, political or other barriers?

Valerie: The greatest barrier to our work is not just obtaining funding for lifesaving and reconstructive surgeries, but also for the rehabilitation center. Pakistani philanthropists have had to face a great deal of corruption from other NGOs, and are not sure who they should support. Additionally, the Pakistani government has other financial priorities – from the situation in Kashmir to terrorism and internally displaced persons.

Generally speaking, political instability and frequent changes in the government make collaboration with officials a bit difficult, since it is hard to get real commitments from them. High rates of illiteracy makes interaction with affected communities even more challenging.  Also, our survivors are from around the country. This geographical spread often makes it difficult for us to reach them.

Feudalism and tribalism remain a challenge, as they does not encourage development or interaction with outsiders. The more feudal or tribal an area is, the less welcoming they are likely to be of an organization like ours. Some families even refuse to have their female relatives treated for free. They fear what society might think when they see females “going away.” 

Raquel:  What would you consider to be some of the greatest victories achieved by the ASF?

Valerie: The case of Naila Farhat was important for us. For the first time, the highest jurisdiction in Pakistan heard the case of an acid attack; and justice was achieved.  This has given way to our lobbying work, which has already been cause for hope. The chief justice supports and praises our work, and has demanded that the Parliament establish a legal framework for acid sale regulation. He also supports the punishment of perpetrators and rehabilitation efforts for survivors.

Raquel:  What can be done to support the work of the Acid Survivors Foundation?

Valerie: We need awareness to be raised at an international level, both about acid violence – and about our rehabilitation center.  The center, which is still developing, is essential for survivors to rebuild their bodies and their lives. We need to increase our ability to both treat survivors and to investigate their cases. To do this, we need more sophisticated medical and forensic equipment, as well as more comprehensive systems to monitor funding and development of the Foundation.

ASF will lobby for legislative changes before the Pakistani national assembly, and continue to do its work locally, nationally and internationally. Financial and other support – like awareness-raising efforts – are key to our success.

To learn more about the Acid Survivors Foundation of Pakistan, please click here.

To make a donation, please click here. When you open the donation window, please be sure to choose #8221;D-ASF Pakistan#8221; in the drop-down  menu under #8220;additional details.#8221; Please note: you will be able to specify your country and donate in the appropriate currency. There is a special link for donations from Canada. 

REUTERS / Eduardo Munoz (via IslamicReliefUSA.org)

Click here for the American Red Cross, and here for Islamic Relief. Islamic Relief has pledged to send $1 million in aid to Haiti; and intends to partner with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to send aid.

REUTERS / Eduardo Munoz

Click here for the American Red Cross.

My apologies for such an extended absence.  While I#8217;m gone, I#8217;m going to keep up with a project I hope you#8217;ll enjoy.

Last year, I was asked to write a column about #8220;incremental positive change#8221; in the Muslim world. In thinking about this idea, I couldn#8217;t help but think of the many Muslims who make positive change every day #8211; but who are never heard or seen by the mainstream (or even independent!) media. Much of the time, these individuals are women.

For the next year or so, I will be highlighting the work of Muslim women who, over the past decade, have worked for positive change in their communities in beyond. Please click here to see the introduction to the series, and enjoy.

PS:

* Following the situation in Malaysia? Please see this touching and important piece about the oneness of God#8217;s name here.

* Not seeing coverage in the media about Muslims who are against terrorism? Check out these guys in Canada, and these protestors in Detroit.

Courtesy: The Guardian (supplied by the British Museum)

An interesting feature from The Guardian, for people of all backgrounds to check out: Blogging the Qur#8217;an. For information about the participants, click here.

Iranian women prepare to vote (AP)

Today, Iran votes. By the time I post this, many of you will have already seen footage of Iranians waiting in line to reach the polls. As we eagerly anticipate the results of this historic election, read coverage of the events here. (By the way, Irsquo;m not being patronizing in the title of this post. Iranrsquo;s current president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has actually used Barack Obamarsquo;s election slogan, ldquo;yes we canrdquo; in his campaign!)

With Reza Aslan, June 2009

Check out Iranian-American writer Reza Aslanrsquo;s take on the Iranian elections by clicking here.

I also suggest reading Dr. Aslanrsquo;s latest book, How to Win a Cosmic War: God, Globalization and the End of the War on Terror. I hope to blog about the book here soon, but itrsquo;s worth a read now.

ldquo;Because, in the end, there is only one way to win a cosmic war: refuse to fight it.rdquo;

- Reza Aslan

Iranian women prepare to vote (AP)

Today, Iran votes. By the time I post this, many of you will have already seen footage of Iranians waiting in line to reach the polls. As we eagerly anticipate the results of this historic election, read coverage of the events here. (By the way, I#8217;m not being patronizing in the title of this post. Iran#8217;s current president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has actually used Barack Obama#8217;s election slogan, #8220;yes we can#8221; in his campaign!)

With Reza Aslan, June 2009

Check out Iranian-American writer Reza Aslan#8217;s take on the Iranian elections by clicking here.

I also suggest reading Dr. Aslan#8217;s latest book, How to Win a Cosmic War: God, Globalization and the End of the War on Terror. I hope to blog about the book here soon, but it#8217;s worth a read now.

#8220;Because, in the end, there is only one way to win a cosmic war: refuse to fight it.#8221;

- Reza Aslan

Alif mabrouk (a thousand congratulations) to Mona Eltahawy for her receipt of the Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press!!  Read Monarsquo;s award-winning article here.

Dr. Ibtihal Al-Khatib

For those of you who havenrsquo;t heard of her, another interesting  journalist to check out is Dr. Ibtihal Al-Khatib. I saw this interview last year, in which she argues that secularism may be a path to religious freedom for everyone ndash; including, if not especially ndash; Muslims.  (The previous link is a transcript. Here is a video of Dr. Al-Khatibrsquo;s interview, in Arabic with English subtitles.)

We already know that you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. Most of us also know that to get our questions (or phone calls/emails/letters) answered, an attack is not the way to start a conversation. Not the conversation that will get anyone anywhere, anyway. I havenrsquo; t been blogging much recently, but this point about human decency has appeared in a few media stories lately. Two of my favorites:

1 ndash; Torture: when we have had questions in urgent need of answers, those who were supposed to be in charge of communication for all of us  decided to take the approach most likely to alienate. We know that torture doesnrsquo;t work (despite Dick Cheneyrsquo;s statements to the contrary). It turns out that if if being rude doesnrsquo;t help you get what you want - waterboarding someone 83 times really wonrsquo;t help them feel inclined to talk to you.

Surprise! It turns out that not being a barbarian is a more promising approach. In fact, when we recognize the humanity of those people with whom we are trying to engage, they might even be willing to talk to us.

Especially if there are cookies involved.

Take-home quote:

ldquo;If you have to inflict pain, then yoursquo;ve lost control of the situation, the subject and yourself.rdquo; - Army staff sargeant Eric Maddox

Read about Ali Soufan, a former FBI special agent and top interrogator who speaks quite unequivocally against torture ndash; which he says is actually likely to produce false testimony from individuals desperate to stop the agony of the violent mdash; excuse me, ldquo;enhancedrdquo; ndash; interrogation. It seems so obvious, doesnrsquo;t it?

2 ndash; Mercy: Mohammed Sohail gets my ldquo;favorite person of the weekrdquo; award, for sure. This is a guy, who, while working late at his convenience store ndash; experienced what would likely scare the pants off of most people. A robber entered, wielding a bat and demanding money.

Herersquo;s the amazing part. By the end of interaction, Mr. Sohail had given the robber both sustenance and faith:  recognizing the desperation of the would-be-robber, he gave him $40 and a loaf of bread. The robber (whose identity we do not know) was so moved by Mr. Sohailrsquo;s mercy that he asked the storekeeper to help him convert to Islam. Finally, Mr. Sohail went to retrieve additional groceries for the manrsquo;s family ndash; but returned to find that the fellow had fled. Read the story here, and click here to see Mr. Sohail tell the story himself.

A former child soldier - Northern Uganda (photo: Richard Wainwright)

Yesterday was the first day of hot weather for many of us in the Northeast United States. Like everyone else in the city, I headed outside to take advantage of the sun (though I was the only person in my group truly happy about the temperature soaring above eighty degrees!).

We stumbled upon a well-organized and peaceful demonstration. Youth in their late teens and early twenties were asking for help, rescue, protection, and representation as ldquo;victimsrdquo; of abduction. As it turns out, they were not seeking any assistance themselves - rather, they were speaking out on behalf of Ugandarsquo;s child soldiers. Further, they were asking passersby if they knew  of ldquo;anybodyrdquo; who could help spread the word about the plight of these children. The young man we spoke with had just begun his 21st hour of demonstrating for children on the other side of the planet.

So, if yoursquo;ve got a platform, use it - right?:

In Uganda, children are regularly abducted by the Lordrsquo;s Resistance Army (or LRA) and forced to fight in a bloody civil war that has been raging since the 1980s.

Children in Gulu, Northern Uganda (source: Dateline)

Africa and other parts of the world have complicated and disastrous histories involving the abduction and use of children in war. It is estimated that some 10,000 + children have been forced to fight in Uganda, often placed at the front lines of individual battles.

What can you do?

1 - Learn more about child soldiers and how to help them by visiting the Coalition to Stop the Use of Child Soldiers. There, you can learn about the plight of child soldiers in various regions of the world - including, of course, Uganda.

2 - Once yoursquo;re informed, click here for ways to take action.

3 - Learn about survivors like Grace Akallo  , the war in Uganda, and the Invisible Children Movement here.

4 - Host an awareness-raising event in your community, on your campus, or at your local civic center. Click here to learn more.

5 - Stay tuned to this newsfeed for the latest, including ways you can help.

6 - Check out Amnesty Internationalrsquo;s comprehensive guide to human rights concerns in Uganda.

Roohi Tabassum (photo: Aaron Harris / Toronto Star)

Roohi Tabassum is a 44-year old Muslim woman currently residing in Canada, slated for deportation to her native Pakistan in just 7 days.

While many deportations occur without much attention (if any) being paid to individual cases, Ms. Tabassumrsquo;s story has ignited a campaign to halt her removal from Canada.

Why? Well, Ms. Tabassumrsquo;s deportation, she claims, may very well be a death sentence. She alleges that her estranged husband, outraged by her work at a coed hair salon in Canada, is determined to slay her in an honor killing. Ms. Tabassum has already filed unsuccessfully for refugee status. A subsequent appeal has also failed.

It is unclear exactly why her application to remain in Canada has been rejected, especially considering that the threatening letters she has presented as evidence in her claim would seem to qualify her as a ldquo;person in need of protectionrdquo; under Canadian immigration law. Should her husband truly intend to kill her, even the option to seek refugee status on humanitarian grounds would not be enough to save her, as shersquo;d have to leave Canada for Pakistan while her case is reviewed.

Should her fears be legitimate, Canada would be in violation of its very principles by deporting her to imminent death. If it has been determined that her fears are unfounded, those trying to aid Ms. Tabassum should be told why. To help, please contact the following with a request to have Ms. Tabassumrsquo;s case reviewed; and in the meantime, to halt her deportation to Pakistan.

Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship/Immigration/ Multiculturalism:

Minister@cic.gc.ca

The Canadian Embassy in the United States:

The Embassy of Canada

501 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC, USA 20001

Phone: 202-682-1740 or 202-682-1755

Fax: 202-682-7726 or 202-682-7738

Immigration Fax: 202-682-7689

Public Affairs Fax: 202-682-7791

http://www.canadianembassy.org

**(Not in the United States? Contact your countryrsquo;s Canadian embassy by clicking here.)

Case Processing Center, Ontario:

2 Robert Speck Parkway,

Suite 1200

Mississauga, ON

L4Z 1H8

Fax: 905-803-7392

With Roi in New York City - April 9, 2009

This past week, I attended a seder at the home of my good friend, Israeli journalist Roi Ben-Yehuda. (Read about the multifaith, modern seder Roi prepared here).

Roirsquo;s gotten a lot of love on this blog, but also deserving of some major props is his brother, Yoni - aka ldquo;Sneakasrdquo;, a very talented rap artist. Hersquo;s not your average lyricist or performer - he turns his time on the mic into action for positive social change. I met Sneakas two years ago, when I learned that hersquo;s hard at work using his music to promote constructive dialogue between Jews and Muslims.

Me with Sneakas - April 8, 2009

But Sneakas has taken his message of understanding a step further: hersquo;s collaborating with Mazzi, another young rap artist. Mazzirsquo;s an Iranian Muslim, and together they are ldquo;Most Hatedrdquo; - a smart, powerful rap duo thatrsquo;s set to change both the music scene and the minds and hearts of Israelis, Palestinians, Jews, Muslims and others the world over. Their single ldquo;Tug of Warrdquo; tells the story of a young Israeli soldier and a would-be suicide bomber from Palestine meeting face to face. Watch the video by clicking here. Please watch through to the end - Sneakas and Mazzi explain the video in a behind-the-scenes commentary you shouldnrsquo;t miss.

With Roi in New York City - April 9, 2009

This past week, I attended a seder at the home of my good friend, Israeli journalist Roi Ben-Yehuda. (Read about the multifaith, modern seder Roi prepared here).

Roirsquo;s gotten a lot of love on this blog, but also deserving of some major props is his brother, Yoni ndash; aka ldquo;Sneakasrdquo;, a very talented rap artist. Hersquo;s not your average lyricist or performer ndash; he turns his time on the mic into action for positive social change. I met Sneakas two years ago, when I learned that hersquo;s hard at work using his music to promote constructive dialogue between Jews and Muslims.

Me with Sneakas - April 8, 2009

But Sneakas has taken his message of understanding a step further: hersquo;s collaborating with Mazzi, another young rap artist. Mazzirsquo;s an Iranian Muslim, and together they are ldquo;Most Hatedrdquo; ndash; a smart, powerful rap duo thatrsquo;s set to change both the music scene and the minds and hearts of Israelis, Palestinians, Jews, Muslims and others the world over. Their single ldquo;Tug of Warrdquo; tells the story of a young Israeli soldier and a would-be suicide bomber from Palestine meeting face to face. Watch the video by clicking here. Please watch through to the end ndash; Sneakas and Mazzi explain the video in a behind-the-scenes commentary you shouldnrsquo;t miss.

Du#039;a Khalil Aswad

Dursquo;a Khalil Aswad was a 17-year old girl living in Iraq. A Yazidi of Kurdish descent, she was publicly stoned to death two years ago today.

Some of the details surrounding this young womanrsquo;s death are unclear: was she killed for converting to Islam? Was her relationship with a boy the reason the crowd decided that she should die?

Other details we know with bone-chilling clarity: Dursquo;a was stoned by a throng of her own community members. She was then tied to a car, dragged through the streets and buried with the remains of a dog. The video of the stoning, recorded on cellphone cameras, was widely distributed on the internet and even broadcast on major news networks.

We also know that some of Dursquo;arsquo;s immediate family members have been connected to her murder; and that the onlookers recording the barbaric act certainly felt no compulsion to help her. Instead, they recorded her final moments - perhaps proud of what their values had led the crowd to ldquo;achieve.rdquo;

Unthinkable. Yet, an estimated 8,000 + people - mostly women and girls - lose their lives every year to ldquo;honorrdquo; killings. While these deaths occur mainly in Muslim-majority countries and communities, they are certainly not exclusive to Muslims. The difference this time is that people the world over have seen the barbarity of the practice - exposing illegitimate tribal customs  to the worldrsquo;s scrutiny. Ironically, those individuals so proud of their own cruelty have helped to fuel the movement against them by filming and releasing the murder of Dursquo;a Khalil Aswad.

And wersquo;re responding. Muslims and non-Muslims alike have headed into the streets to protest ldquo;honorrdquo; killings, including in Iran, where 2000 individuals stormed the streets against the practice  after the murder of an 18-year old girl there. Women are taking an especially vocal stance against honor violence and extremism.

Non-Muslims in Europe are responding too  - read about Finnish activist Raija Ala-Lipasti here. Irsquo;ve shared this with you before: in the UK, a helpline has been started to assist those at risk for honor-based violence.

While we have not won the fight against honor violence, strides are being made against it - and Dursquo;arsquo;s memory must propel us forward in this most important battle. As Irsquo;ve said in previous posts - may we not let these innocents die in vain. While Dursquo;arsquo;s death was an unconscionable display of human evil, it must also be a call to action for those with just hearts.

* Please support the International Campaign Against Honour Killings here.

* Learn about Stop Child Executions here. SCE works not just to combat honor violence, but against all executions of children.

* Check out Muslimah Media Watch regularly. These sisters represent a wide variety of opinions - and keep us up-to-date on the latest happenings in the Muslim world.

* Stay informed with the help of Women Living Under Muslim Laws.

This post is actually a question for you mdash; maybe you will be able to provide some insight as I try to assist a friend in her goal of pursuing her Masterrsquo;s degree in the USA. From Nablus, she is an accomplished writer (in both Arabic and English) and very gifted in the humanities. Shersquo;s also dedicated to improving the lives of Palestinians through peace and understanding - something not just the region, but the entire world - could use more of.

If you have thoughts or information about US-based universities (or nonprofits, NGOs and even government-affiliated entities) offering scholarships, grants or fellowships for young women like her, please drop me a note in the comments section below. If you include your email address in the field provided, it wonrsquo; t be published - but I can see it and will respond.

Shukran!

Well, Irsquo;m back from Finland. Still thawinghellip;and dealing with a nasty flu. (Some souvenir!) Thanks to everyone who has kept reading!

I wanted to direct your attention to a couple of things:

1 - Mona Eltahawy has just published a commentary on the death of  Aasiya Hassan. I will have more to say about this case later, but thought it important to share this piece. (Also, Irsquo;d like to redirect readers to this post, where I posted some of the Islamic Society of North Americarsquo;s materials on domestic violence.) While we continue to struggle with violence in the community, it would be unfair not to mention positive steps like these by ISNA.

2 - The Hijablogrsquo;s webmistress is back with a post about the headscarf in Norway. Glad to see you posting again, girl!

3 - More on choice: this blogger, who posted about my trip to Finland, also posted a blog about the issue of hijab in the workplace. Both of the above bloggers highlight the importance of choice for women. Now, while Irsquo;d take back some of the ldquo;rebelliousrdquo; choices I made during my late teens and early twenties  (from fashion to social alliances!) - I also know that some of the things I chose helped to bring me full-circle back to my authentic values. This was, for me, an educational experience - cementing consistent values in an often inconsistent world. We should trust women to make the choices that best help to nurture their self-esteem, integrity, and intellectual development. Most Muslims would agree.  The key is to highlight those leaders in the Islamic community (and beyond) who will help provide the necessary guidance young women often seek.  

4 - I just received word about a couple needing global support. Two young Pakistanis are facing a possible death sentence for marrying outside of their tribal communities. Read more about their case here - where you can also submit an appeal to help them. The couple also has a child, whose life is obviously set to be devastated should its parents lose their lives.

Salaams from Helsinki! Irsquo;ve finally gotten around to creating a photo album for this trip, which Irsquo;ll update regularly while Irsquo;m here. You can see it by following this link - enjoy and check back often!

Discussing honor violence - February 21, 2009

Last night, the Finnish Broadcasting Network featured an interview with Raija Ala-Lipasti and myself - we were discussing honor violence. Raija, who is the operations manager of the Turku Womenrsquo;s Centre, has worked with women who have been subject to and threatened by honor-based violence. This is an issue many people across Scandinavia have taken interest in - especially following the death of Fadime Sahindal.

(The white lettering above is what Irsquo;m saying - in Finnish subtitles. I point out that these crimes are committed by only a small percentage of the Muslim community; and that advanced nations should provide assistance to their Muslim residents. During the dayrsquo;s events, I also highlighted cases of honor violence not committed by Muslims - like the case of Dursquo;a Khalil Aswad. )

Tomorrow, I meet Finlandrsquo;s refugee of the year from the year 2000, Batulo Essak. We will be working at the AIDS support center and also discussing the issue of female genital cutting. Finland has an ever-growing number of refugees from Somalia; where 90% of women are ldquo;circumcised.rdquo; Eighty percent of these circumcisions are Type III - the most severe form of genital mutilation. 

Stay tuned for more updates from the snowy north; and remember to stay up-to-date by checking out the International Campaign Against Honor Killings regularly. For women and girls like Aasiyah Hassan, Sarah and Amina Said, Aqsa Parvez, Sandeela Kanwal, and the many who have already lost their lives - it is too late. Letrsquo;s not let them pass in vain - we can and must take action.

If yoursquo;re living in the UK, be sure to see this story about a new helpline founded to help those in danger of honor violence and forced marriage. It is already receiving calls. Hopefully, crisis management professionals the world over will take a cue from this latest initiative, training their staff to handle these cases effectively.

Salaams from Helsinki! Irsquo;ve finally gotten around to creating a photo album for this trip, which Irsquo;ll update regularly while Irsquo;m here. You can see it by following this link - enjoy and check back often!

Discussing honor violence - February 21, 2009

Last night, the Finnish Broadcasting Network featured an interview with Raija Ala-Lipasti and myself ndash; we were discussing honor violence. Raija, who is the operations manager of the Turku Womenrsquo;s Centre, has worked with women who have been subject to and threatened by honor-based violence. This is an issue many people across Scandinavia have taken interest in ndash; especially following the death of Fadime Sahindal.

(The white lettering above is what Irsquo;m saying ndash; in Finnish subtitles. I point out that these crimes are committed by only a small percentage of the Muslim community; and that advanced nations should provide assistance to their Muslim residents. During the dayrsquo;s events, I also highlighted cases of honor violence not committed by Muslims ndash; like the case of Dursquo;a Khalil Aswad. )

Tomorrow, I meet Finlandrsquo;s refugee of the year from the year 2000, Batulo Essak. We will be working at the AIDS support center and also discussing the issue of female genital cutting. Finland has an ever-growing number of refugees from Somalia; where 90% of women are ldquo;circumcised.rdquo; Eighty percent of these circumcisions are Type III - the most severe form of genital mutilation. 

Stay tuned for more updates from the snowy north; and remember to stay up-to-date by checking out the International Campaign Against Honor Killings regularly. For women and girls like Aasiyah Hassan, Sarah and Amina Said, Aqsa Parvez, Sandeela Kanwal, and the many who have already lost their lives - it is too late. Letrsquo;s not let them pass in vain ndash; we can and must take action.

If yoursquo;re living in the UK, be sure to see this story about a new helpline founded to help those in danger of honor violence and forced marriage. It is already receiving calls. Hopefully, crisis management professionals the world over will take a cue from this latest initiative, training their staff to handle these cases effectively.

Metro station, Helsinki, Finland (photo: Jussi K. Niemela)

 Greetings from Helsinki, Finland!

A very short time ago, a Helsinki-based friend and I were exchanging emails over our shared frustrations. He was working hard to combat both Islamophobia and cultural relativism in his own progressive circles. I was surrounded by boxes in my furnitureless apartment, wondering how real positive change can happen when some of the most vocal lsquo;activistsrsquo; are often ruled more by their own megalomania than sincere concern for the human condition. Bummed, exhausted and uncharacteristically pessimistic, I desperately needed a boost.

It came in the form of an invitation to Finland. My friend told me that he was sure there was some way for us to not just host a dynamic seminar event, but also to enrich the already blossoming movement to protect Muslim womenrsquo;s rights in Scandinavia. Within twenty-four hours, we had sponsors. Shortly thereafter, we had my red-eye plane tickets totaling 14 hours in transit. I borrowed some mittens and got on my way.

With the incredible Iivi Anna Masso

This is no money-making trip, and no media-mongering frenzy, though wersquo;ve gotten lots of helpful coverage across Scandinavia. This is something so much better. Here, we are hosting seminars on freedom of religion, honor violence, female genital cutting, and immigration. At my request, we are also meeting with activists for childrenrsquo;s rights and working with the staff of an HIV/AIDS support center supporting mainly Somali refugees.

Irsquo;ll keep you posted throughout the trip. So far, I can tell you that Irsquo;m moved and inspired by the Finnish dedication to understanding, honesty, compassion and real support for the Muslims coming to their shores. People have been honest about that which they believe ails the Muslim community - but have also been seeking constructive solutions to better Muslim lives. That, my friends, should be how activism is conducted. Stay tuned!

***

PS: Check out these interesting documents from the Islamic Society of North America. ISNA hasnrsquo;t always gotten it right, but I think that these guides for imams are actually more constructive than many other leaflets meant to help individuals working with victims and survivors.

1 - Guidelines for imams working with victims and survivors of domestic violence

2 - Guidelines for imams working with abusive persons

Halal grocery, Helsinki (photo: Jussi K. Niemela)