 Sisters in Islam, Malaysia
Press Release
Two dominant and opposing views on Islam which have emerged in the NGO Forum has been challenged by a group of Muslim women activists. The group from Malaysia, Kuwait, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Indonesia, the United States and Canada said the two opposing views do not represent the majority of Muslims worldwide.
The first view reflects an ultra-conservative position, focusing on comparing the ideals of Islam with the reality and ills of the Western world. A second view rejects religion as a reaction against Islamic conservatism and abuses committed in the name of Islam.
For many of us, both views are unrealistic and untenable. Islam recognized equality between women and men, it does not advocate polygamy, nor does it condone domestic violence. It is not a religion that oppresses women, nor does it restrict them from full participation in public life.
In reality, Islam has been used to justify laws and practices which oppress women. This occurs as a result of customs, traditions, and values which regard women as inferior and subordinate to men.
The group advocates a reconstruction of Islamic principles, procedures and practices in light of the basic Quranic principles of equality and justice. The group intends to continue its work on various issues including a serious study of the sources of Islamic jurisprudence and the unrealistic assessment of the financial realities for women in the modern world.
- Sisters in Islam, Malaysia
- Dr. Riffat Hassan, USA
- Sharifa Amina, Malaysia
- Muslim Women's League, USA
- Nefisra Viviani, Indonesia
- Fatima Hussain, Kuwait
- Muslim Welfare Organization, Malaysia
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