Muslim Women in Redmond

“Islam is a religion that believes in the equality, education, and empowerment of women.” States the website trueislam.com.

Practicing Islam since 1970 I’ve been unpacking that statement for myself, my daughters, granddaughter, and our neighbors in Redmond. Conveniently, this website invites everyone to consider the role of women in true Islam. Is it so foreign to the roles played by women being honored during Women’s History month? I think not. The women’s auxiliary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Seattle chapter, led by Tehmina Ali of Redmond, is presenting an interfaith forum “Women Promoting Peace” which invites all women to come together for an afternoon of face to face learning. As individuals and in groups, all Americans face the challenge of knowing more about the religion of Islam.

The website trueislam.com gives references from the Holy Qur’an regarding the equal rewards for men and women who worship God and are kind, while it also teaches gender specific rights and responsibilities. “And they (the women) have rights similar to those (of men) over them in equity; but men have a degree of advantage. And Allah is Mighty, Wise” (2:229). The commentary to this verse explains that as far as personal rights are concerned, husband and wife stand on a par. But as pointed out in 4:35 men have a supervisory authority on account of the physical advantage they possess and the financial responsibility that they carry of providing for the household. Verses like this regarding harmonious family life, have been misused creating terrible misconceptions about the equality of men and women within the religion of Islam. However as a mother I appreciate the Qur’anic verse 2:289, which explains how the testimony of a woman can be supported by another woman, in case she forgets. Birthing and nursing babies takes a great deal of mental focus which in some cases is exaggerated by sleep deprivation. Men and women have different roles within the human family in regard to reproduction, but Islam teaches humanity that to reach success both men and women are to be educated and empowered to reach their full potential.

The strong emphasis on education among Muslims can be witnessed here in Redmond. Many Muslim families live within close proximity to Microsoft. The tech industry attracts well educated men and women with pay scales that empower families with the means to live on the income of one worker. Educated and empowered Muslim women do not fit the stereotypes of Muslim women used in propaganda. When my Muslim sister gives me a ride from Bear Creek Park & Ride, she mentions how her father encouraged her to learn to drive in Pakistan. Another Muslim sister from Marshall Islands loves the benefits she and her Muslim sisters enjoy in wearing more modest clothing. My Muslim sisters from South Africa appreciate the absence of racial discrimination in Islam. Elsewhere and in Redmond one must be vigilant in practicing worship of God and being good to each other. Indeed, looking at my life, I acknowledge too much of the time I have spent worshiping my own selfish desires and being unkind to others. But hope for the saving Grace of My Creator lifts my spirits when I read Qur’anic teachings like: “Despair not of the mercy of Thy Lord.” “Repent and make amends.” Being a Muslim woman I am comfortable with boundaries describing my role in society such as, in leadership be just, in prosperity be generous, when blessed be modest, and fulfill the responsibilities laid upon you. But the only limits on my personal relationship with the Divine come from within my own soul.