Introduction
Summary of the Book Headscarves and Hymens by Mona Eltahawy. Before moving forward, let’s take a quick look at the book. Opening Your Eyes to the Hidden Struggles and Unseen Strengths of Arab Women Imagine living in a world where every step you take is watched, every choice you make is scrutinized, and your voice is often silenced. This is the reality for millions of women in Arab countries, where deeply ingrained cultural and religious norms limit their freedoms and rights. ‘Headscarves and Hymens’ by Mona Eltahawy sheds light on these hidden struggles, revealing the daily battles women face against systemic oppression, misogyny, and violence. But amidst these challenges, there is a powerful movement of brave women who are reclaiming their voices and fighting for equality. This book invites you to journey into the lives of Arab women, uncovering the complexities of their experiences and the resilience that drives them to seek change. From the enforced veils that symbolize both oppression and empowerment, to the dangerous traditions that threaten their very lives, each chapter delves deep into the multifaceted issues that shape their existence. You’ll discover how these women are harnessing the power of the internet to connect and mobilize, challenging the status quo and inspiring others to join their fight for justice. Through engaging narratives and detailed explanations, ‘Headscarves and Hymens’ offers a window into a world that is often misunderstood and overlooked. It not only highlights the harsh realities of gender inequality in the Arab world but also celebrates the strength and determination of those who refuse to accept their marginalized status. By opening your eyes to these stories, you become part of the movement that stands in solidarity with Arab women, advocating for a future where every woman can live freely and fully.
Chapter 1: Unveiling the Daily Struggles of Arab Women in Misogynistic Societies.
Arab women navigate their daily lives within environments that are often hostile and deeply rooted in misogyny. While many in the Western world recognize that gender equality is lacking in Arab nations, the extent of daily abuse and discrimination faced by women is frequently underestimated. Mona Eltahawy highlights how Islamic religion, particularly its conservative interpretations, plays a significant role in fostering a culture that systematically oppresses women. In regions like the Middle East and North Africa, misogyny is not just a social issue but is intertwined with religious doctrines that promote the subjugation of women. This pervasive hatred and discrimination manifest in various forms, from restrictive laws to societal norms that prioritize male authority over female autonomy.
The influence of ultra-conservative Islamic groups, such as Salafi factions, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Shiite militias, exacerbates the control over women’s lives. These groups enforce strict interpretations of religious texts, which often translate into oppressive practices that limit women’s freedoms and rights. For example, in many Arab societies, family matters are adjudicated by religious courts that uphold Islamic laws. While these laws are intended to protect family structures, they frequently fail to prevent egregious abuses like child marriage, marital rape, and domestic violence. In countries like Egypt and Yemen, legal systems permit and even justify the punishment and abuse of women, highlighting the dire circumstances many Arab women endure daily.
The societal control over women in the Islamic world extends beyond legal frameworks to encompass cultural expectations that dictate women’s roles and behaviors. Women are often seen as the guardians of family honor, which places immense pressure on them to conform to societal norms. This pressure is evident in practices such as child marriage, where young girls are forced into marriages with significantly older men, as seen in the tragic case of an 8-year-old girl in Yemen who died from rape on her wedding night. Such practices are not isolated incidents but are indicative of a broader societal acceptance of gender-based violence and oppression.
Despite the grim reality, there are emerging voices advocating for change. A nascent feminist movement within the Arab world is beginning to challenge the status quo, striving to liberate women from their roles as second-class citizens. These feminists face immense resistance, both from within their communities and from external forces that seek to maintain traditional power structures. However, their efforts are crucial in shedding light on the systemic issues that perpetuate women’s oppression and in paving the way for a more equitable future for Arab women.
Chapter 2: The Silence of Arab Women and Western Liberals Amidst Rampant Misogyny.
In the face of widespread misogyny, both Arab women and Western liberals often remain silent, creating a complex dynamic that hinders progress toward gender equality. Arab women, raised in cultures that emphasize obedience and conformity, frequently find it challenging to voice their grievances against male oppressors. This silence is not a reflection of indifference but rather a survival mechanism to avoid social ostracization and the potential backlash that comes with challenging deeply ingrained societal norms. Speaking out can lead to severe consequences, including investigations by community members or authorities, which can bring shame and jeopardize not only the woman’s reputation but also that of her family.
Moreover, Arab women who dare to speak against oppression face the added threat of being targeted by Islamophobic groups that use their activism as a pretext to further stigmatize Muslim societies. This dual threat forces many women to remain quiet, fearing both internal and external repercussions. The courage required to defy these pressures is immense, comparable to the struggles faced by American women of color who fought against sexism within the black community. Despite these fears, a growing number of Arab feminists are finding the strength to break their silence and advocate for their rights, challenging the patriarchal structures that have long suppressed their voices.
On the other side, Western liberals often hesitate to address the misogyny faced by Arab women, primarily out of respect for cultural differences and a desire to avoid imposing Western values on other societies. This reluctance is rooted in the concept of cultural relativism, which promotes the idea that one should understand and evaluate cultures based on their own standards rather than external ones. While this perspective fosters tolerance, it can also lead to a form of complacency where critical issues like gender inequality are overlooked or dismissed as matters of cultural specificity. As a result, the plight of Arab women remains underreported and inadequately addressed in global discussions about women’s rights.
The lack of discourse from both Arab women and Western liberals creates a vacuum where misogyny continues to thrive unchecked. However, the emergence of brave Arab feminists who are willing to challenge these silences is a beacon of hope. These women are not only advocating for their own rights but are also inspiring others to join the fight against systemic oppression. By breaking the chains of silence, they are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable society where women’s voices are heard and valued.
Chapter 3: The Veil as a Symbol of Oppression and Empowerment in Arab Societies.
The headscarf, or veil, is a powerful symbol in Arab societies, embodying both oppression and empowerment for women. While many Western critics view the veil as a tool of male oppression enforced by patriarchal structures, the reality is far more nuanced. In the Arab world, women wear the hijab or niqab for a variety of reasons, ranging from deep religious convictions to personal choice and societal expectations. The hijab covers the head and chest, while the niqab extends to cover the face, leaving only the hands and sometimes the eyes visible. These forms of veiling are often seen as markers of piety, modesty, and respect for tradition, aligning with conservative interpretations of Islamic teachings.
For some women, wearing the veil is a personal expression of faith and identity, a choice made freely to align with their religious beliefs. These women find a sense of liberation and autonomy in their decision to cover, viewing it as a way to assert control over their own bodies and reject the objectification imposed by a male-dominated society. By choosing to wear the veil, they challenge societal norms that dictate how women should present themselves, turning the act of veiling into a statement of empowerment and self-respect.
However, for many Arab women, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, wearing the veil is not a choice but a mandate imposed by societal and legal pressures. In countries like Saudi Arabia, strict enforcement by morality police ensures that women adhere to veiling norms, with severe penalties for those who defy these rules. The author, Mona Eltahawy, shares her personal experience of wearing the veil from the age of 16 until 25, highlighting the complex interplay between personal freedom and societal obligation. Her decision to remove the veil was fraught with difficulty, underscoring the limited agency many women have over their own appearances.
The pervasive expectation to veil is just one aspect of the broader system of control that restricts women’s freedoms in Arab societies. This control extends beyond clothing to other areas of life, including sexuality and personal autonomy. The veil, while serving as a visible marker of these restrictions, also symbolizes the deeper societal mechanisms that uphold gender inequality. Until women’s rights are prioritized over rigid cultural and religious norms, the veil will remain both a symbol of oppression for those forced to wear it and a symbol of empowerment for those who choose to wear it freely.
Chapter 4: The Dark Reality of Preserving Virginity Through Harmful Traditions in the Arab World.
In many Arab cultures, a woman’s virginity is considered sacred, leading to the enforcement of dangerous and often deadly practices aimed at preserving it until marriage. This obsession with virginity is closely tied to the protection of family honor, where a woman’s sexual purity is seen as a reflection of her family’s reputation. The hymen, a thin membrane partially covering the vaginal opening, is erroneously believed to be a definitive indicator of virginity. This misconception has led to extreme measures to ensure that a woman’s hymen remains intact, often resulting in severe physical and psychological harm.
One of the most harrowing practices associated with this belief is female genital mutilation (FGM), which involves the partial or complete removal of a girl’s external genitalia. FGM is not rooted in religious teachings but is instead a cultural practice prevalent in various Arab countries. Families often subject their daughters to FGM as a means of controlling their sexuality and ensuring their compliance with societal expectations of purity. The procedure is performed without anesthesia and can lead to immediate complications like severe pain, bleeding, and infection, as well as long-term consequences such as infertility, chronic pain, and complications during childbirth. In some cases, the damage caused by FGM is so severe that it results in death.
The enforcement of virginity extends beyond physical mutilation to include social and legal punishments for women found to have engaged in premarital sex. In extreme cases, women accused of losing their virginity before marriage may face honor killings, where they are brutally murdered to preserve the family’s honor. This brutal form of violence is a direct manifestation of the societal obsession with virginity and the lengths to which communities will go to enforce it. The case of the Yemeni girl who was forced into marriage and subsequently died from rape illustrates the deadly consequences of these harmful traditions.
International organizations like the United Nations and the World Health Organization have condemned FGM as a violation of human rights, yet the practice persists in many Arab societies due to deep-seated cultural norms and the complicity of religious and community leaders. Efforts to eradicate FGM require comprehensive education and cultural change, addressing the root causes that perpetuate the belief in virginity as a woman’s most valuable asset. Only through such efforts can the cycle of violence and oppression surrounding female sexuality be broken, allowing women to live free from the threats of mutilation and honor-based violence.
Chapter 5: The Pervasive Threat of Sexual Harassment and Domestic Abuse Against Arab Women.
Arab women face relentless threats of sexual harassment and physical abuse both in public spaces and within the confines of their homes. In many Arab countries, the public sphere is a dangerous place for women, where unsolicited touching, verbal assaults, and other forms of harassment are commonplace. A staggering 99.3% of Egyptian women reported experiencing sexual harassment in public according to a 2013 United Nations survey. These incidents often go unreported due to societal stigma and the lack of legal protections for victims, leaving women vulnerable and powerless to seek justice.
The situation worsens when women attempt to report harassment or abuse to the authorities. In Egypt, for instance, the police conduct virginity tests on rape victims, effectively subjecting women to further trauma and violating their rights. Such practices discourage women from coming forward, as they fear not only retribution but also further victimization. The story of Dalal, a 16-year-old Jordanian girl who was forced into marriage with her rapist, underscores the dire consequences of a legal system that prioritizes male honor over female dignity. In many cases, men can escape punishment by marrying their victims, perpetuating a cycle of abuse and silence.
Home, often perceived as a sanctuary, is not safe for many Arab women. In numerous Arab societies, women are considered the property of their husbands, with little to no legal recourse in cases of domestic abuse. Sharia law, which governs family matters in many Islamic countries, often fails to protect women from violence. In Saudi Arabia, despite the introduction of national laws against domestic abuse, enforcement remains weak, allowing perpetrators to continue their abusive behavior with impunity. In Iraq, the legal consequences for men who murder their wives are minimal, highlighting the systemic biases that favor male offenders over female victims.
Moreover, societal attitudes often blame women for the abuse they endure, further discouraging them from seeking help or speaking out. Victims of domestic violence are frequently stigmatized and ostracized, making it difficult for them to find support or escape abusive relationships. The encouragement by some clerics for men to discipline their wives and daughters underpins a culture that tolerates and even condones violence against women. This pervasive environment of fear and repression makes it nearly impossible for Arab women to live free from the threats of sexual harassment and domestic abuse, perpetuating their status as second-class citizens.
Chapter 6: The Rise of Arab Feminists Harnessing the Power of the Internet to Drive Social Change.
In the face of entrenched misogyny and societal repression, Arab feminists are turning to the internet as a powerful tool to connect, organize, and advocate for women’s rights. The digital landscape offers a platform for women to voice their experiences, share their stories, and mobilize support for social change, despite the constant threat of repressive actions by authorities. Activists like Wajiha Al-Huwaider in Saudi Arabia have leveraged online campaigns to challenge restrictive laws, such as the ban on women participating in sports, demonstrating the internet’s potential to foster significant societal shifts.
One notable example is the online campaign initiated by Wajiha Al-Huwaider in 2008, which protested the exclusion of women from the Saudi Olympic team. The campaign received overwhelming support, leading to the inclusion of two female members in the team by 2012. This victory highlighted how digital activism could effectively challenge and change longstanding discriminatory practices. Similarly, the courageous actions of Manal Al-Sharif, who was imprisoned for driving a car in Saudi Arabia, ignited a wave of online protests that ultimately contributed to the lifting of the driving ban for women. These instances underscore the internet’s role in amplifying the voices of Arab women and facilitating collective action against oppressive laws.
The internet also serves as a safe space for women to share their experiences of sexual harassment and abuse, fostering a sense of solidarity and community among feminists. Social media platforms and online forums allow women from different Arab countries to exchange ideas, strategies, and support, creating a unified front against gender-based oppression. Initiatives like Harasmap and Harir Bodyguard have utilized digital tools to organize and protect women participating in protests, demonstrating how technology can enhance the effectiveness of feminist movements in the region.
Despite the significant progress made through online activism, Arab feminists continue to face severe risks, including censorship, harassment, and physical violence. The authorities often perceive digital activism as a threat to their control, leading to crackdowns on online dissent. Nevertheless, the resilience and ingenuity of Arab feminists in using the internet to circumvent these obstacles are paving the way for meaningful social change. By harnessing the power of digital platforms, these women are not only advocating for their rights but are also inspiring a new generation of feminists to continue the fight for equality and justice.
Chapter 7: Battling Sexual Violence Amidst Revolutionary Movements in the Arab World.
Even during periods of significant political upheaval and revolutionary movements, Arab women have had to confront and combat sexual violence as they strive for liberation. The fight for women’s rights in the Middle East is not a new phenomenon; it has deep historical roots dating back to the early 20th century. For instance, in 1923, Egyptian feminist Huda Shah Arawi spearheaded a movement advocating for women to abandon the veil, challenging societal norms and setting the stage for future feminist activism in the region.
During the Arab Spring of 2010 and 2011, thousands of Arab women took to the streets to protest oppressive government regimes, demanding not only political reform but also social justice and gender equality. However, these protests were marred by instances of sexual violence perpetrated by both state authorities and fellow protesters. In Syria, women who participated in demonstrations against President Bashar al-Assad were subjected to rape and torture by loyalist forces. Similarly, in Egypt, female protesters faced sexual assaults from large crowds during demonstrations against President Hosni Mubarak, highlighting the pervasive nature of gender-based violence even within movements seeking liberation.
The tragic incident of a woman being gang-raped in Cairo’s Tahrir Square during Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s presidential inauguration in 2014 starkly illustrates the challenges Arab women face in their fight for rights. These acts of sexual violence are not only attempts to intimidate and silence women but also serve to undermine their participation in public and political life. It wasn’t until women’s rights groups and organizations like Harasmap and Harir Bodyguard stepped in to advocate for the issue that the Egyptian government began to address sexual violence on the streets, implementing measures to protect women and hold perpetrators accountable.
Despite these setbacks, Arab women continue to persevere in their fight against sexual violence and for equal rights. The introduction of sex education in regions plagued by sexual abuse represents a positive step toward changing repressive laws and societal attitudes that condone such violence. By educating young people about consent, sexual rights, and gender equality, these initiatives aim to dismantle the cultural norms that perpetuate sexual violence and discrimination. Ultimately, the ongoing struggle of Arab women against sexual violence amidst revolutionary movements underscores their resilience and unwavering commitment to achieving true social and political liberation.
Chapter 8: The Struggle for Education and Economic Independence Among Arab Women.
Education and economic independence are critical pillars in the fight for gender equality, yet Arab women often face significant barriers in accessing these opportunities. In many Arab societies, traditional gender roles dictate that women prioritize domestic responsibilities over personal development and professional aspirations. This cultural expectation limits women’s access to education, relegating them to roles within the household and preventing them from contributing fully to society. However, despite these challenges, a growing number of Arab women are breaking free from these constraints, pursuing higher education and seeking economic independence as means to assert their autonomy and challenge patriarchal norms.
Access to education is a fundamental right that empowers women to envision and create a better future for themselves and their communities. In countries like Jordan and Lebanon, efforts have been made to improve female enrollment in schools and universities, recognizing the importance of education in fostering gender equality. Educated women are more likely to participate in the workforce, engage in civic activities, and advocate for their rights, creating a ripple effect that benefits entire societies. Moreover, education equips women with the knowledge and skills necessary to challenge discriminatory practices and advocate for legislative reforms that promote equality and protect women’s rights.
Economic independence is another crucial factor that enables Arab women to escape the cycle of dependency and abuse. By entering the workforce and achieving financial stability, women gain the freedom to make decisions about their own lives, including the ability to leave abusive relationships and invest in their personal and professional growth. In many Arab countries, economic participation is still hindered by societal expectations, limited access to job opportunities, and legal barriers that restrict women’s employment rights. However, initiatives aimed at promoting female entrepreneurship and supporting women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields are beginning to make a difference, offering women the tools they need to succeed in the modern economy.
Furthermore, economic empowerment contributes to the overall development of societies by increasing the workforce and fostering innovation and creativity. Women who achieve economic independence are more likely to invest in their families, support their children’s education, and contribute to community development projects. This not only enhances the quality of life for their immediate families but also drives broader social and economic progress. By challenging the status quo and advocating for equal opportunities in education and employment, Arab women are paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
Chapter 9: The Role of International Solidarity in Supporting Arab Women’s Fight for Equality.
The struggle for gender equality among Arab women is not confined to the region alone; it is a global issue that requires international solidarity and support. While local efforts are crucial, the involvement of the international community can amplify the voices of Arab feminists and provide the necessary resources and platforms to effect meaningful change. International organizations, foreign governments, and global advocacy groups play a pivotal role in highlighting the plight of Arab women, advocating for their rights, and holding oppressive regimes accountable for human rights violations.
One significant way the international community can support Arab women is through funding and resources for grassroots organizations that work on the ground to promote women’s rights and provide services to victims of violence and abuse. Financial assistance can help these organizations expand their reach, implement educational programs, and offer legal support to women seeking justice. Additionally, international pressure can be instrumental in pushing governments to adopt and enforce laws that protect women’s rights and promote gender equality. By leveraging diplomatic channels and international forums, global allies can advocate for policy changes that benefit Arab women and challenge discriminatory practices.
Cultural exchange and global awareness campaigns are also essential in fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Arab women and the progress being made in their fight for equality. Sharing success stories, best practices, and strategies from different parts of the world can inspire and inform activists within the Arab region, providing them with new tools and approaches to tackle gender-based oppression. Moreover, raising awareness in Western societies about the specific issues faced by Arab women can generate broader support and encourage more people to get involved in advocacy efforts.
Ultimately, international solidarity is about recognizing that the fight for gender equality is a shared responsibility that transcends national boundaries. By standing in solidarity with Arab women, the global community not only supports their individual struggles but also contributes to the broader movement for human rights and social justice. This collective effort is essential in creating a world where all women, regardless of their cultural or geographical context, can live free from oppression and enjoy the same opportunities and freedoms as their male counterparts.
All about the Book
Headscarves and Hymens by Mona Eltahawy challenges the global silence on women’s rights, advocating for gender equality, empowerment, and freedom of expression while addressing patriarchal oppression in contemporary society.
Mona Eltahawy is a celebrated Egyptian-American journalist and author, known for her bold critiques of gender discrimination and her advocacy for women’s rights across the globe.
Gender Studies Researchers, Social Activists, Journalists, Cultural Anthropologists, Human Rights Lawyers
Reading feminist literature, Participating in activism, Writing, Blogging about social issues, Engaging in community discussions
Women’s Rights, Gender Equality, Cultural Oppression, Religious Extremism
The only thing more dangerous than an angry woman is a woman who has found her voice.
Malala Yousafzai, Michelle Obama, Emma Watson
Giraffe Heroes Project Award, Women’s Media Center Award, Arab American Book Award
1. How do headscarves represent identity in different cultures? #2. In what ways do hymens symbolize cultural control? #3. Can women reclaim their narratives through personal stories? #4. What power dynamics exist between genders in society? #5. How does religion influence women’s rights globally? #6. Why are women’s bodies politicized in many cultures? #7. What role does feminism play in the Arab world? #8. How can art challenge stereotypes about Muslim women? #9. What does intersectionality mean in understanding women’s issues? #10. How do personal experiences shape one’s feminist perspective? #11. Why is understanding privilege important in feminist discourse? #12. How do societal expectations affect women’s autonomy? #13. What challenges do women face in achieving equality? #14. How can solidarity among women promote social change? #15. What is the significance of sexual agency for women? #16. How do media portrayals impact perceptions of Muslim women? #17. In what ways can literature empower marginalized voices? #18. How does the concept of honor influence women’s lives? #19. What strategies exist for resisting oppressive cultural norms? #20. How can education transform gender dynamics in society?
Mona Eltahawy, Headscarves and Hymens, feminism, Middle Eastern women, Islam and gender, women’s rights, cultural critique, social justice, feminist literature, female empowerment, Arab feminism, intersectionality
https://www.amazon.com/Headscarves-Hymens-Why-Allowed-Questions/dp/1610395079/
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