SURVEY: What is Marriage to YOU?

"The surgeon general has listed marriage as the number one cause for divorce..." *lol*

All kidding aside...what does marriage mean to you? Your comments would be most welcome. Please note that comments may be used in an upcoming article I am thinking of writing. If your comment is selected for use in the article, you will be notified and offered the choice of whether or not your comment is used anonymously, or quoted with your name. Of course, if you'd like to leave your prefered use option together with your comment, that would be most helpful, insha'Allah. Looking forward to hearing from you, insha'Allah!

Here are a some sample responses:

"It can be the most beautiful thing in life if the companions are truly compatible to each other (soul mates as they say), have the same vision about life and the hereafter and so base their marriage/life on the right principles."

"It's the bonding of two (or more souls) under God, and union of two families, to protect ones deen, and lead a well balanced life while better staying focused on the purpose of this journey. Any journey is easier to embark upon with a companion alongside."

"Basically marriage is a relationship and companionship between an adult man and woman sustained by love, intimacy, commitment, compromise, adaptation, and similarities in values."

"Marriage is about joining life and another family...here and in the hereafter...someone who can be your better half...help you become a better Muslim...a better person...someone who motivates you...and yet someone who you can motivate...it has to be equal. Basically someone who you can have and be happy with...thinking you have everything in the world...in just one person...without the materials of the world."

Click on the comment link below to add your thoughts!

UPDATE: Surviving the Holidays as a Revert

[This was originally posted Dec. 20, 2005] Assalamu Alaikum! Well...it's December 20th...and I know some of you out there are likely still somewhat perplexed as to how to resolve, for yourself, the issue of how to spend the holiday where it concerns your non-Muslim family members. Since the original post was made on December 8, there have been so many responses, subhan'Allah! So, I wanted to take a moment to share with you the direct link to the original blog in order to offer you another opportunity to read about how others of you have been thinking and feeling during this time.

~*Surviving the Holidays as a Revert*~ (http://aishahsjourney.blogspot.com/2005/12/surviving-holidays-as-revert.html)

The final message being...you are not alone! May those of you who have the good fortune to be able to spend time with your families during this time remember, first and foremost, to do your best to maintain your Islamic identity and to give the best example possible of the kindness, gentleness, peacefulness, and beauty of Islam, and may your non-Muslim family members, through your shining examples, find something in their hearts to make them just a little more curious...and may Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala continue to guide us all. Ameen.

May we also remember those who may not have family members with which to share the bond of family ties, and may we do our best to reach out to them, wherever they are, in whatever way possible, to reassure them that they too, are not alone.

"None of you will believe until he wants for his brother what he wants for himself." Al-Bukhari Please read, "Do You Know A New Muslim?" http://aishahsjourney.blogspot.com/2005/12/do-you-know-new-muslim.html

Ma'Salaama. Allah Almighty says: (Allah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity. It is only as regards those who fought against you on account of religion, and have driven you out of your homes, and helped to drive you out, that Allah forbids you to befriend them. And whosoever will befriend them, then such are the wrong-doers.) (Al-Mumtahinah 60: 8-9)

Ads Hope to Dispel Fears of Muslims

By KRISTEN GELINEAU, Associated Press Writer Wed Dec 20, 2:21 AM ET The small beige signs bearing swirling, black Arabic script appear all over town on buses and at colleges. One panicked bus rider wondered if they were secret messages from terrorists. Should the FBI be contacted? What do they mean? Actual translation: "Paper or plastic?" The signs are part of a campaign by the Virginia Interfaith Center, aimed at dispelling some of the public's fears about the Muslim community. Organizers hope to eventually expand the program statewide. "As soon as people see Arabic, they immediately make an association with terrorism," said the Rev. C. Douglas Smith, executive director of the interfaith center. "That's probably because since 9/11, not only is fear overwhelming us, but that's how we're being trained to think." The signs were placed in all 170 Greater Richmond Transit Company buses on Nov. 27 and many buses will continue to display them at least through the end of January. The signs, designed by The Martin Agency, have also been posted at the University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University. Besides the "paper or plastic" sign, there are two others — one which is the Arabic version of the "I'm a little tea pot" rhyme and the other roughly translating to the English equivalent of "rock, paper, scissors." Accompanying the translations at the bottom of the posters are comments such as, "Misunderstanding can make anything scary," and "What did you think it said?" The transit company has already fielded several calls from concerned riders, said Gretchen Schoel, executive director of A More Perfect Union, a project of the Virginia Interfaith Center that is spearheading the ads. One woman Schoel described as a well-educated university employee placed a frantic call to the bus company's manager, suggesting the FBI be called in to investigate. Even after the signs' English translations were explained to her, she remained concerned that they might contain secret messages, Schoel said. "It's so great that we're getting feedback, even if it is negative, because it shows that people are looking, they're thinking," Schoel said. "And it really proves the point that this script right here conjures up certain ideas in our heads that we have to work with." Bias against the Muslim community is a continuing problem across the country, said Imad Damaj, president of the Virginia Muslim Coalition for Public Affairs. "There's so many lazy, unexamined assumptions about all of us and how we react to people," Damaj said. "We need to challenge ourselves." (more) ___ On the Net: A More Perfect Union: http://www.yourvoiceouraction.org Virginia Interfaith Center: http://www.virginiainterfaithcenter.org

You're Back from Hajj...Now What? by Aishah Schwartz

"Then when you pour down from Arafat, celebrate the praises of Allah at the Sacred Monument, and celebrate His praises as He has directed you, even though, before this, you were astray." [Al-Baqarah 2:198]

So, you're back from Hajj! Mabrook! Congratulations! Hajj Mabroor! May Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala accept! Amin.

Okay, all the fanfare aside, now what?

Read the rest of the story here...

Copyright © 2006 Aishah Schwartz
Permission is granted to circulate among private individuals and groups, to post on Internet sites and to publish in full text and subject title in not-for-profit publications. Contact author for all other rights, which are reserved.

HIJAB: Fabric, Fad or Faith?

"Yeah, I just got on the bus and I’m on my way home. Okay, Mum, Wa’alaikum Assalam."

I slip my cell into my bag. A girl in a yellow tank top and dark blue cut-offs plops into the seat beside me.

"Ugh, I hate taking the bus, especially in this heat," she says.

I nod and smile.

She raises her eyebrows at my full-length dress and the cloth wrapped around my head. "Aren’t you hot in that?" she asks.

I contemplate my answer. The girl shoots another question. "Why do you wear that thing on your head anyway?"

I fiddle with the clasp on my bag. I wonder what I should say. Why do I wear Hijab?

Why the Hood?

It’s tough to explain, isn’t it? Hijab relates to the basic faith that there is only one God worthy of worship. As Muslim women we want to submit to God and obey all His commands. Since Hijab is a clear commandment of God (see Quran 24:31), we choose to do it to please Him. If we wear Hijab for any other reason, we may fulfill an obligation without gaining the reward for it.

Aisha (The wife of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him) said, "May Allah have mercy on the immigrant women (from Makkah). When Allah revealed ‘that they should draw their veils over their juyubihinna*,' they tore their wrappers and covered their heads and faces with them." [Bukhari]

The female companions of the Prophet gave up the traditions and norms of their society and covered up immediately to respond to Allah, before they knew the proper method.

Only a Head Covering?

"And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their Juyubihinna* and not display their beauty except to…" [Quran 24:31]

The word *Juyubihinna, according to most scholars, refers to the head, ears, neck and chest. To fulfil the minimum requirements of Hijab, a Muslim woman covers her entire body, except her face and hands. Once Asma, daughter of Abu Bakr, entered upon the Prophet wearing thin clothes. The Prophet turned his attention from her. He said, "O Asma, when a woman reaches the age of menstruation, it does not suit her that she displays her parts of body except this and this," and he pointed to his face and hands. [Abu Dawud]

Proper Hijab means loose and opaque clothes. Clothes should not be alluring or similar to the clothing of men. What about guys? Islam outlines a modest dress code for men and women. The requirements are different based on the obvious physiological and psychological differences between the two genders.

Hijab does not apply only to clothes. It is a state of mind, behaviour, and lifestyle. Hijab celebrates a desirable quality called Haya (modesty), a deep concern for preserving one’s dignity. Haya is a natural feeling that brings us pain at the very idea of committing a wrong. The Prophet said: "Every religion has a distinct call. For Islam it is Haya (modesty)." [Ibn Majah]

What’s in it for Me? Five Advantages of Hijab

I can’t be messed with! Hijab protects me – Hijab identifies a Muslim woman as a person of high moral standards to reduce her chances of being harassed.

"O Prophet! Tell your wives and daughters and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons: that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested." [Quran 33:59]

As Dr. Katherine Bullock (a Canadian convert and community activist) observes, "The point to covering is not that sexual attraction is bad, only that it should be expressed between a husband and wife inside the privacy of the home. A public space free of sexual tensions is seen as a more peaceful place for human beings, men and women, to interact, do business, and build a healthy civilization."

I am liberated from slavery to 'physical perfection' – Society makes women desire to become 'perfect objects'. The multitudes of alluring fashion magazines and cosmetic surgeries show women’s enslavement to beauty. The entertainment industry pressures teens to believe that for clothes, less is better. When we wear Hijab, we vow to liberate ourselves from such desires and serve only God.

I don’t let others judge me by my hair and curves! – In schools and professional environments, women are often judged by their looks or bodies—characteristi cs they neither chose nor created. Hijab forces society to judge women for their value as human beings, with intellect, principles, and feelings. A woman in Hijab sends a message, "Deal with my brain, not my body!"

I feel empowered and confident – In contrast to today’s teenage culture, where anorexia and suicide are on the rise, as women attempt to reach an unattainable ideal of beauty, Hijab frees a woman from the pressure to ‘fit in’.

She does not have to worry about wearing the right kind of jeans or the right shade of eyeshadow. She can feel secure about her appearance because she cares to please only Allah.

I feel the bond of unity – Hijab identifies us as Muslims and encourages other Muslim sisters to greet us with the salutation of peace, "Assalamu Alaikum." Hijab draws others to us and immerses us in good company.

Heard These Before? Three Misconceptions About Hijab

Hijab is a symbol of 'male dominance'

If you think Hijab is an act of submission, you are right! It is a way to submit to God. Like any other act of worship, the rewards of Hijab come only when it is done for Allah alone.

Hijab is a 'cultural thing'

From remote villages to cosmopolitan mega cities, women all across the world, from every ethnic background, wear Hijab. Do all of these women cling to old cultural practices? Hijab, the internal and external aspects, take understanding, training and determination. Since the purpose of Hijab is to please Allah, doing it for tradition is wrong.

Hijab is a 'challenge to the political system'

While Hijab may have political implications, as evident in the banning of Hijab in certain countries, Muslim women who choose to practice Hijab are not doing it to challenge the political system. Islam encourages men and women to observe modesty in private and public life. Hijab is an individual’s act of faith and religious expression.

Are you Ready? Six Obstacles to Overcome

Thinking about wearing Hijab? Here are some tips to help you overcome obstacles that may get in your way:

Yourself –Not sure if you’re ready? Remember that Iman (faith in Allah) includes submitting to Allah’s will. Research, understand the reasons and talk to girls who have gone through it. Ask Allah to help you put your beliefs into action. Prophet Muhammad related that Allah said, "if [My servant] draws near to Me a hand’s span, I draw near to him an arm’s length; if he draws near to Me an arm’s length, I draw near to him a fathom’s length; and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running." (Bukhari and Muslim)

Your Friends – Worried about how your buddies will take it? Your friends should accept your decision and be proud of your courage. Give them time and be patient. Be conscious of Allah, not the girls or guys.

Your Parents – It’s difficult to do things when the people closest to you oppose it. As Muslims, it’s our duty to please our parents, unless their wishes go against the command of Allah. As much as your parents do for you, their love and mercy could never compare to that of your Creator. Ease your parents into your decision and pray that it becomes easy for them to understand.

At School –It takes courage to be different. You are likely to hear, "what is that thing on your head?" or "who made you do it?" Questions aren’t bad. Know your reasons and explain why you chose to wear Hijab.

At Work – The United Nations states that, "Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion" (Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18). Most countries in the world abide by this declaration and have their own laws that protect an individual’s freedom of religious practice at work.

At the Gym – What about swimming or basketball for sporty sisters? Obeying Allah and wearing Hijab does not limit your physical activity. Organize sisters-only sports events. This encourages true sports-womanship. When you play, it’s about the love of the game, not the glory (or the guys watching!).

SOURCE: Young Muslims Canada

To Cover or Not to Cover

By Pat McDonnell Twair
The hijab head covering is often the first thing that sets a Muslim woman apart. The hijab head covering is often the first thing that sets a Muslim woman apart. Asking Muslim women why they do or do not wear the scarf can be a beginning point for understanding how they understand themselves in relation to their faith.

"I don't wear the scarf for many reasons," said Iraqi-born psychologist Ilham al-Sarraf. "The first is that I have not reached the internal level of piety in my faith to declare it on the external level."

Hanaa al-Wardi, founder of the Museum of Contemporary Arab Art in Alhambra, California, said her mother and relatives in Baghdad wear hijab, but she has elected not to. "To me, hijab means modesty," al-Wardi said, "and I always present myself in a modest way: no short skirts, sleeveless or midriff tops, and no bikinis!"

Educator Semeen Issa concurred. "I chose not to wear hijab, other than during daily prayers," she said, "because preconceived notions and stereotypes about Muslim women come to mind at the sight of the scarf—even before you open your mouth."

Dr. Halima Shaikley wears not only a scarf, but also a formless long-sleeved coat in observance of hijab. "If girls are forced to wear hijab, it is bad," she stated. "If one has sufficient faith, you aren't concerned about how you look to strangers."

Necva Ozgur, principal of New Horizon School in Pasadena, said she did not wear hijab while growing up in Istanbul, Turkey. "As a teen-ager, I was very particular that every strand of hair was in place, that I wore the latest coiffure," she said. But when she immigrated to the United States and became active in the Islamic Center of Southern California, she decided she needed to go one more step in her faith. Now, said Ozgur, "I definitely don't spend the time I used to on my hairdos, but I spend a lot of money on scarves."

To Cover or Not to Cover. by Pat McDonnell Twair. Sojourners Magazine, May-June 2001 (Vol. 30, No. 3, pp. 43). Features.
(Source: http://www.sojo.net/index.cfm?action=magazine.article&issue=soj0105&article=010522a)

Veil No Bar to Glory for Muslim Women Says Doha Gold Medal Champion

DOHA - Reuters (Dec. 12, 2006) - Winning the Asian Games 200 metres in a veil proves there are no barriers to Muslim women pursuing their sporting dreams, champion Ruqaya Al Ghasara (photo) said on Monday. The 24-year-old wore a hijab -- a scarf which covers the hair and neck -- along with leggings and long sleeves, but still outpaced her more scantily-clad rivals to win gold for Bahrain. "I want to say I'm very thankful for being a Muslim; it's a blessing," said the sports management student. "Wearing conservative clothes has encouraged me. Wearing a veil proves that Muslim women face no obstacles and encourages them to participate in sport. This is a glory to all Muslim women." (continued here)

"Dude, Are You MUSLIM?!?!?"

I don't watch much TV, but as it happens, I have seen a little more than my share in the past few weeks. And I'm posting today because it was the second time I caught cleverly inserted dialogue suggesting to the viewing audience that Muslims are inherently violent.

Case in point.

I was flipping through channels Saturday afternoon and landed on WB50 (channel 18 on the cable line up I was tuned into here in Virginia) - and I happened to catch the opening of the Chris Rock sitcom, "Everybody Hates Chris".

Scene: Dialogue between Chris and classmate, Greg, on first day back at school.

After having his books knocked out of his arms while passing through a hallway on the first day back to school, Chris laments to his classmate that he is tired of being picked on, teased, and kicked around (not exact words, but along that same line), and ends his monologue with the declaration, "I'm not going to take it anymore!"

As the two boys rise from picking up Chris's books from the hallway floor, Greg says to Chris, with emphasis, "Dude! Are you Muslim?"

WHAT?!? I mean, seriously, WAS THAT NECESSARY??

I'm sure the program was broadcast in numerous other markets...but WB50 happens to be the one I'm aware of...every voice counts...if we remain silent more and more incidents like this will be repeated through popularly watched TV programs, after which this false message will take root in schools as children repeated it and more believe it...and our children will suffer needlessly. Isn't there enough suffering in the world?

I've sent this to the CW network by the way...you can too:
Washington, DC's WB50: Feedback
Boston's CW56/WLVI-TV: Feedback
Providence's CW28/WLWC: Feedback
Hartford-New Haven CW20/WTXX-TV: Feedback
Baltimore CW54/WNUV: Feedback

Detailed Listing of 212 CW Affiliates HERE.

Comment was in first episode of second season or #23.
http://www.cwtv.com/shows/everybody-hates-chris/episodes/023

Hey, Aishah! Where Have You Been Lately?

{{Laughing}} - Thought that would be a good intro for this post, after all, I was MIA for a month-and-a-half, right?

Okay! Okay! So I was in Pakistan! What?!?! *lol* That's right; Karachi, to be exact, as the guest of a wonderful friend that I first came to know during my stay in Saudi Arabia two years ago.

I was gone for a month, and as it happened, the dial-up internet service would not pull up the blog, so I could not post updates, which was totally frustrating, if you can imagine! *smile*

As it happened, I didn't get to take too many outdoor photos; it turns out that it is not exactly in one's best interest to "flash" personal possessions that might be considered of value to street muggers, i.e., jewelry, cell phones, or cameras! The one photo I took outdoors (above) was taken at night during a brief visit to the Arabian seaside.

I've now experienced Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Pakistan...and I am thinking of writing a comparative piece outlining the differences in the lives of women in these countries that might, insha'Allah, be helpful to more of us who live here in the west as we strive to gain a better understanding of one another. I know this is an issue among those of us who accept Islam here in the states, and as we try to integrate ourselves into pre-existing Muslim communities that were more often than not, started by immigrants.

The more effort we make to understand one another's cultures, the easier it will be to embrace one another in the true spirit of Islam. Insha'Allah.

What Are you Grateful For Today?

The smile of a grandson...masha'Allah...is he beautiful or what?

Celebrating his third birthday, November 25, 2006 - when he was born in 2003, it happened to be the day of Eid...Al-hamdulillah! *smile*

My sister takes great photos, too! *wink*

Jamrat Bridge to Be Ready Before Forthcoming Haj

P.K. Abdul Ghafour, Arab News — Saturday, 30, September, 2006 (08, Ramadhan, 1427) JEDDAH, 30 September 2006 — The first phase of the new Jamrat expansion project in Mina will be completed by the beginning of December ahead of the next Haj season, according to Habeeb Zainul Abideen, deputy minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs. “We have already completed 70 percent of the first phase. God willing, the remaining part will be ready within the next 65 days,” the minister said, adding that about 10,000 people have been working round the clock to finish the project on time. The SR4.2-billion ($1.12-billion) project was designed by the government as part of its efforts to avoid stampedes and crowding in the Jamrat area. In the past, hundreds of pilgrims have died performing the stoning ritual with 360 pilgrims losing their lives as a result of a massive stampede on the last day of the Haj last year. Speaking about the progress of work at Jamrat, an engineer said work on two underpasses named after King Faisal and Al-Jowhara have been completed. The underpasses will be used for vehicle movement. About 80 percent of the basement, which will be used for collecting stones, disposing wastes and parking ambulances, is also ready, the engineer said. The ground and first floors of the new Jamrat facility will be completed before Haj, which is scheduled to start on Dec. 29. The Saudi Binladin Group, which won the contract last year, has set up a huge factory in Bahra on an area of 450,000 square meters to supply concrete blocks required for the project. The new facility includes two helipads, which will help in the speedy evacuation of casualties in case of accidents. The new structure will have 10 entrances and 12 exits distributed over the four levels plus the ground floor to accommodate pilgrims coming from different directions. The ground and first floor will be used by pilgrims coming from the east of Mina, who account for the bulk of the crowd. The second level will be used mainly by pilgrims coming from the direction of Makkah, the third level by those coming from the north of Mina and new pilgrim camps and the fourth level by pilgrims coming from the south of Makkah via King Abdul Aziz Road. ------------------------- Fair Use Notice This site contains copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to advance understanding of environmental, political, human rights, economic, democracy, scientific, and social justice issues, etc. We believe this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes. (See: http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/17/107.shtml.) If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use', you must obtain permission from the copyright owner.

Muslimah Writers Alliance Director Welcomes news of Saudi Reversal to Eliminate Women's Prayer Area

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful 
NOTE: PLEASE EXCUSE THAT THIS IS POST IS BEING MADE SO FAR AFTER-THE-FACT...LIFE SORT OF GOT IN THE WAY. ALLAHU ALIM. *smile*  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Muslimah Writers Alliance Director Welcomes News of Saudi Reversal to Eliminate Women's Prayer Area  

WASHINGTON, D.C. - September 12, 2006 (MWANET) On Monday, September 11, 2006, just eleven days after the Muslimah Writers Alliance Grand Mosque Equal Access for Women Project and online petition were launched, news sources reported deputy head of Grand Mosque affairs, Mohammed bin Nasser al-Khozayem, as saying, 'The presidency (committee) [has] decided to adopt a second proposal, which is to expand two special places for women's prayer, in addition to the one that already exists.' 

Despite reports from Jeddah suggesting that this was all a 'misunderstanding', let us be reminded that the controversy began with the reported words of a member of King Abdullah's committee of scholars, namely, Osama al-Bar, head of the Institute for Haj Research. Al-Bar was quoted as saying, "The area is very small and so crowded. So we decided to get women out of the sahn [Kaaba area] to a better place where they can see the Kaaba and have more space. Some women thought it wasn't good, but from our point of view it will be better for them ... We can sit with them and explain to them what the decision is." 

That report concluded with the statement, "The decision is not final, and could be reversed." 

"In my capacity as Founder and Director of Muslimah Writers Alliance, I made the decision to rise to the challenge presented and lent MWA's voice to those of our sisters in Saudi Arabia." 

Continuing Ms. Schwartz stated: "To that end, let us give all thanks and praise to God Almighty for facilitating our efforts. In embracing the news of the Saudi's reversal of the prior decision to remove the sister's prayer area from within the mataaf (circumambulation area around the Holy Kaaba), may we be eternally mindful of the power a good intention. And let the naysayers take heed in their complacency. Whatever efforts we make, however great or small, are never a waste of time. 

"Had we not collectively made an effort to save the women's prayer area, how many more tears would have been shed as the Saudi government slowly implemented its prior decision? 

"Let us be mindful that it is written in the Holy Qur'an (translation of the meaning) that God will not change our condition(s) until we change what is within ourselves. 

"To those supporting the Grand Mosque Equal Access for Women online petition, may God Almighty reward your efforts in this life and the next, God willing. 

"And to King Abdullah; you must know that Muslim women worldwide will never forget that you allowed their voices to be heard; and that you listened. I also personally thank you. I understand your first year as King has brought about many praiseworthy accomplishments. Having spent a year in your Kingdom during 2004-05, I had the opportunity to visit Makkah, Madinah, Taif, Jeddah, and Riyadh. I left behind many wonderful new friends and a treasure chest of memories, many of which I have documented through my writings. It is my prayer to return to the Kingdom one day. 

"King Abdullah, you have the power to bring Saudi Arabia forward in new and positive directions, and it is my added prayer that you continue to follow God's guidance," Ms. Schwartz concluded.
 

See Also: Women Welcome Rejection of Haram Prayer Proposal Razan Baker, Arab News JEDDAH, 12 September 2006 Women’s Petition Opposes Grand Mosque Plans Razan Baker, Arab News JEDDAH, 11 September 2006 Saudi Clerics Backtrack on Mecca Women Prayer Ban RIYADH (Reuters) - Sept. 11, 2006 Saudi Officials Consider Banning Women From Praying at Shrine of Mecca, Raising Protests By DONNA ABU-NASR Associated Press Writer JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (Sept. 7, 2006) (ABC News International) Women in the Grand Mosque ARAB NEWS (Sept. 5, 2006) Chorus Gets Louder SAUDI GAZETTE (Sept. 2, 2006) Muslimah Writers Alliance Joins Coalition of Activists Seeking Preservation of Women's Prayer Area at Mecca's Grand Mosque MWANET (Aug. 31, 2006) Women to Fight Mecca Restriction Daily News, South Africa (Aug. 30, 2006)

--------------------------  
Established in 2006, MWA is an internationally-based and recognized organization with a Mission to inspire Muslim women to collaborate with one another for the sake of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala and the common good of the Muslim Ummah, in addition to supporting one another in fulfilling their aspirations to become established writers. Applying Islamic principles, boundless enthusiasm, experience and resourcefulness to every project embraced, MWA members are dedicated to one another's success. -------------------------- 

The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said, "One who helps a fellow Muslim in removing his (or her) difficulty in this world, Allah will remove the formers distress on the Day of Judgment. He who helps to remove the hardship of another, will have his difficulties removed by Allah in this world and in the Hereafter. One who covers the shortcomings of another Muslim, will have his faults covered up in this world and the next by Allah. Allah continues to help a servant so long as he goes on helping his own brother (or sister)." (Muslim)

Muslimah Writers Alliance Director Welcomes News of Saudi Reversal on Decision to Eliminate Women's Prayer Area

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Muslimah Writers Alliance Director Welcomes News of Saudi Reversal on Decision to Eliminate Women's Prayer Area

WASHINGTON, D.C. - September 12, 2006 (MWANET) On Monday, September 11, 2006, just eleven days after the Muslimah Writers Alliance Grand Mosque Equal Access for Women Project and online petition were launched, news sources reported deputy head of Grand Mosque affairs, Mohammed bin Nasser al-Khozayem, as saying, 'The presidency (committee) [has] decided to adopt a second proposal, which is to expand two special places for women's prayer, in addition to the one that already exists.'

Despite reports from Jeddah suggesting that this was all a 'misunderstanding', let us be reminded that the controversy began with the reported words of a member of King Abdullah's committee of scholars, namely, Osama al-Bar, head of the Institute for Haj Research.

Al-Bar was quoted as saying, "The area is very small and so crowded. So we decided to get women out of the sahn [Kaaba area] to a better place where they can see the Kaaba and have more space. Some women thought it wasn't good, but from our point of view it will be better for them ... We can sit with them and explain to them what the decision is."

That report concluded with the statement, "The decision is not final, and could be reversed."

"In my capacity as Founder and Director of Muslimah Writers Alliance, I made the decision to rise to the challenge presented and lent MWA's voice to those of our sisters in Saudi Arabia."

Continuing Ms. Schwartz stated: "To that end, let us give all thanks and praise to God Almighty for facilitating our efforts. In embracing the news of the Saudi's reversal of the prior decision to remove the sister's prayer area from within the mataaf (circumambulation area around the Holy Kaaba), may we be eternally mindful of the power a good intention.

"And let the naysayers take heed in their complacency. Whatever efforts we make, however great or small, are never a waste of time.

"Had we not collectively made an effort to save the women's prayer area, how many more tears would have been shed as the Saudi government slowly implemented its prior decision?

"Let us be mindful that it is written in the Holy Qur'ran (translation of the meaning) that God will not change our condition(s) until we change what is within ourselves.

"To those supporting the Grand Mosque Equal Access for Women online petition, may God Almighty reward your efforts in this life and the next, God willing.

"And to King Abdullah; you must know that Muslim women worldwide will never forget that you allowed their voices to be heard; and that you listened. I also personally thank you. I understand your first year as King has brought about many praiseworthy accomplishments. Having spent a year in your Kingdom during 2004-05, I had the opportunity to visit Makkah, Madinah, Taif, Jeddah, and Riyadh. I left behind many wonderful new friends and a treasure chest of memories, many of which I have documented through my writings. It is my prayer to return to the Kingdom one day.

"King Abdullah, you have the power to bring Saudi Arabia forward in new and positive directions, and it is my added prayer that you continue to follow God's guidance," Ms. Schwartz concluded.

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SEE ALSO:

Women Welcome Rejection of Haram Prayer Proposal

Razan Baker, Arab News - JEDDAH, 12 September 2006

Women’s Petition Opposes Grand Mosque Plans

Razan Baker, Arab News - JEDDAH, 11 September 2006

Saudi Clerics Backtrack on Mecca Women Prayer Ban

RIYADH (Reuters) - Sept. 11, 2006

Saudi Officials Consider Banning Women From Praying at Shrine of Mecca, Raising Protests

By DONNA ABU-NASR Associated Press Writer - JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (Sept. 7, 2006)

(ABC News International)

Women in the Grand Mosque

ARAB NEWS (Sept. 5, 2006)

Chorus Gets Louder

SAUDI GAZETTE (Sept. 2, 2006)

Muslimah Writers Alliance Joins Coalition of Activists Seeking Preservation of Women's Prayer Area at Mecca's Grand Mosque

MWANET (Aug. 31, 2006)

Women to Fight Mecca Restriction

Daily News, South Africa (Aug. 30, 2006)

The Rights of Women in the Grand Mosque

ALJAZEERA-REUTERS (Aug. 30, 2006)

Women Face Curbs at Makka

ARAB NEWS (Aug. 28, 2006)

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Established in 2006, MWA is an internationally-based organization with a

Mission to inspire Muslim women to collaborate with one another for the sake of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala and the common good of the Muslim Ummah, in addition to supporting one another in fulfilling their aspirations to become established writers. Applying Islamic principles, boundless enthusiasm, experience and resourcefulness to every project embraced, MWA members are dedicated to one another's success.

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Muslimah Writers Alliance

1745 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Suite 147

Washington, DC 20006

Fax & Voicemail: 1-866-405-5981

On the web:

http://www.muslimahwritersalliance.com

http://mwawomenmakinghistory.blogspot.com

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Muslimah_Writers_Alliance

http://www.sisteraishah.com

http://aishahsjourney.blogspot.com

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Sisters4Dawah

The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said, "One who helps a fellow Muslim in removing his (or her) difficulty in this world, Allah will remove the formers distress on the Day of Judgment. He who helps to remove the hardship of another, will have his difficulties removed by Allah in this world and in the Hereafter. One who covers the shortcomings of another Muslim, will have his faults covered up in this world and the next by Allah. Allah continues to help a servant so long as he goes on helping his own brother (or sister)." (Muslim)

JOIN MUSLIMAH WRITERS ALLIANCE GRAND MOSQUE EQUAL ACCESS FOR WOMEN PROJECT "GMEA4W"

Chorus Gets Louder - SAUDI GAZETTE (Sept. 2, 2006) Muslim Women worldwide are about to lose their right to pray in the previously alloted/designated space for women only in view of the Ka'ba at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. (SEE FLYER.) Osama al-Bar, head of the Institute for Haj Research, is quoted as saying, "The area is very small and so crowded. So we decided to get women out of the sahn [Kaaba area]..." The decision is not final, he said, and could be reversed. "Get women out!? Reversal of this decision must be our mission until, by the grace of Almighty Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala, it is achieved," declared Aishah Schwartz, MWA Founder and Director. To learn how you can be a part of working to reverse the proposal to eliminate the prayer area designated for women in the Ka'ba area of the Grand Mosque visit the Muslimah Writers Alliance Grand Mosque Equal Access for Women website. Muslimah Writers Alliance (MWA) is also sponsoring an online petition drive in support of its initiative. Sign here! Established in 2006, MWA is an internationally-based organization with a Mission to inspire Muslim women to collaborate with one another for the sake of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala and the common good of the Muslim Ummah, in addition to supporting one another in fulfilling their aspirations to become established writers. Applying Islamic principles, boundless enthusiasm, experience and resourcefulness to every project embraced, MWA members are dedicated to one another's success. Visit MWA online. Muslimah Writers Alliance Joins Coalition of Activists Seeking Preservation of Women's Prayer Area at Mecca's Grand Mosque - MWANET (Aug. 31, 2006) The Rights of Women in the Grand Mosque - ALJAZEERA-REUTERS (Aug. 30, 2006) Women Face Curbs at Makka - ARAB NEWS (Aug. 28, 2006)

This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody.

There was an important job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it.

Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it.

Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it.

Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody’s job.

Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it.

It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done!

Your support of this initiative is more important than you can possibly imagine, as it will impact millions of women worldwide - today, tomorrow, and in the years ahead. Jazakallahu khayran. ~Aishah Schwartz Founder & Director Muslimah Writers Alliance 1745 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Suite 147 Washington, DC 20006 Fax & Voicemail: 1-866-405-5981 National Outreach Director Publications Consultant Web Administrator MAS Freedom Foundation 1050 17th St., N.W., Suite 600 Washington, D.C. 20006 On the web: http://www.masnet.org Email: aishah.schwartz AT muslimahwritersalliance.com On the web: http://www.muslimahwritersalliance.com http://www.muslimahwritersalliance.com/MWA-GMEA4W/Home.html http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Muslimah_Writers_Alliance http://www.sisteraishah.com http://aishahsjourney.blogspot.com http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Sisters4Dawah The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said, "One who helps a fellow Muslim in removing his (or her) difficulty in this world, Allah will remove the formers distress on the Day of Judgment. He who helps to remove the hardship of another, will have his difficulties removed by Allah in this world and in the Hereafter. One who covers the shortcomings of another Muslim, will have his faults covered up in this world and the next by Allah. Allah continues to help a servant so long as he goes on helping his own brother (or sister)." (Muslim)

Muslim Boy Conquers Fear of Hate Crimes in Children's Book

"I Am an American, Too," a children's picture book geared toward ages six and up, has been released in conjunction with the fifth anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001. The book offers lessons about racial profiling, as well as support of caring friends and neighbors. Author Zakia Hyder dedicates the book to victims of violence and to every American who builds bridges across cultures. Mason, OH (PRWEB) August 12, 2006 -- In an educational new book for children, "I Am an American, Too" (now available through AuthorHouse), Zakia Hyder teaches young readers about discrimination and friendship in a post-9/11 world through the eyes of a Muslim-American family. Released in conjunction with the fifth anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, "I Am an American, Too" is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that puts a human face on the hate crimes perpetrated against Muslim families after the attacks. It is the story of Ahmad, a young boy who works his way through the fear and confusion of hate crimes to focus on the good that surrounds him and his family. In the days after the attacks, vicious remarks and vandalism to his home stirs fear and anger, but good-natured, understanding neighbors help and support this family, that is unfairly labeled. In this sensitive and reassuring tale, Ahmad’s friends and neighbors bridge cultural differences by sharing their joys and sorrows. Although his family belongs to a specific ethnic group, he is as American as any other young boy. His story appeals to all children who must face the uncertainties of an adult world. “I thought of what Papa and Mama had said about all the good in this world, and all the bad, and how we should never lose sight of the good,” Ahmad says in the book. “I wondered about those men in New York. About that boy in the mall, and about the people who broke our mailbox. I felt sorry for all of them. Surely, they had lost sight of the good, I thought. I looked again toward my parents, remembering their tales of the American dream and how it brought them to this country. I promised myself I would go to bed that night and dream a similar dream. I’d think only of the good.” Hyder has edited award-winning articles for trade and business magazines. She is published in a poetry anthology and served as managing editor for professional journals. This is her first book for children (ages 6 and older). She dedicates it to all Americans who are making an effort to build bridges and fight violence of all kinds. The full-color illustrations were created by Steve Adams. More information is available at www.zakiahyder.com or by calling the author at (513) 328-4480. AuthorHouse is the premier publishing house for emerging authors and new voices in literature. EDITORS: For review copies or interview requests, contact: Promotional Services Department Tel: 888-728-8467 Fax: 812-961-3133 Email: zakia @ zakiahyder.com or pressreleases @ authorhouse.com (When requesting a review copy, please provide a street address.)

Rallying the Muslim Community to Eradicate Complacency

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE MONITOR NOW POSTING INSTALLMENTS OF THE JILL CARROLL STORY ONLINE! READ MORE HERE! The story of Jill Carroll serves as a reminder that it's time for a wake-up call By Christine Amina Benlafquih and Aishah Schwartz Naseebvibes - April 19, 2006 The March 30, 2006 release of kidnapped American journalist Jill Carroll from her Iraqi captors sparked an undertow of dialogue about why she was wearing an Islamic headscarf. Times have changed in areas like Rochester, NY, where in the 1970s and '80s Chris Turek remembers there being one Mexican boy and one African American girl in her parochial grammar school. It was big news when a black family moved across the street in the previously all-white neighborhood she grew up playing in. And in high school, Chris remembers a first encounter with the only Asian among 300+ students in her graduating class. Diversity remained elusive at the university in Pittsburgh that Chris attended after graduation, but by the time she migrated to the metropolitan area of Washington, D.C. in 1990 to accept a position with an all-girls school, change was definitely in the air. Located in the Maryland suburb of Bethesda, the school attracted an incredibly diverse pool of students from the nation's mixing bowl capitol. Diversity had become a national goal, and its resounding anthem seemed to be generating global noise. Schools and universities participated in People of Color Conferences, job hunters and college applicants complained of reverse discrimination, and businesses and newspapers adopted language that demonstrated new sensitivity. But with the '90s behind us, and the introduction of Islam and its multi-faceted practices as a new stanza in diversity's song, it has become eminently clear that it's time for another wake-up call. With reports of rioting between Christians and Muslims in Egypt, the heinous torture and murder of a Moroccan Jew in France, the violent protests over slander of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and the daily killing between Shi'a and Sunni in Iraq - obviously it's time for a world summit of religious leaders to convene with the explicit purpose of developing a unilateral policy of understanding, sensitivity and tolerance based on both ethnic and religious levels. Intolerance Raises its Ugly Head The March 30, 2006 release of kidnapped American journalist Jill Carroll from her Iraqi captors sparked an undertow of dialogue about why she was wearing an Islamic headscarf. Broadcasters and journalists made note of it. Viewers and readers discussed it. And, of course, the Muslim community was curious about it. Interestingly, however, with all the observation and media coverage, only a handful presented public opinion that showed admiration for Jill Carroll's adopting the headscarf in the first place. Garnering far more attention was the prevailing opinion that she had worn the headscarf during her captivity merely out of fear, or as some suggested, due to the effects of Stockholm syndrome. Whatever the reason, it seemed abundantly clear that the majority of western observers and commentators wanted Jill Carroll to remove the allegedly oppressive and demeaning scarf from her head, post-haste. This is what Muslims need to take issue with. The Muslim community needs to rise to the occasion and help the world understand what they and Islam are all about. Despite headline making news of Afghani women throwing off their burqas, notwithstanding the stories of veiled Saudi women entering airplane bathrooms mid-flight and emerging in fashionable western attire - headscarves removed - the majority of Muslim women wearing hijab, and even the face veil, choose to do so of their own free will. A Call for Unification But wait - does the Muslim community have the attention of the naysayers? Is the ranting and raving in protest of the misrepresentations of Islam and its teachings falling on deaf ears? Could it be possible that Muslims need a wake-up call of their own? Heads shake on hearing repeated proclamations that hijab is misunderstood. Tongues get tied when Islam is presented in tandem with terrorism. And paralysis sets as television stations send reporters and camera crews to record for posterity the fact that Muslims seem to find it nearly impossible to maintain an organized demonstration without turning to violence - effectively erasing any progress made in asserting the message that Islam is peace. The time is long past due for Muslims on individual and united fronts to present and clarify the common misperceptions that exist about their religion. Members of the Muslim faith need clarity enough in their own minds to readily deflect negative attacks and offer responses to questions about Islam and its practices in a clear, comprehensive, and non-offensive manner. Crying foul every time western media depicts Islam and/or Muslims in a less than favorable light has become the proverbial band-aid for a wound gushing with internal complacency. Shame on the Muslim community for not stepping forward when opportunity presented itself as the hot-button issue of hijab resurfaced in news headlines through Jill Carroll's story. When Jill Carroll returned from Iraq, three months after her kidnapping, Muslim representatives and leaders should have taken time out from the media-weary coverage and relentless rehashing of the Danish cartoon controversy to snuff revived assertions that Muslim women are oppressed for freely choosing to wear a headscarf in compliance with the teachings of their religion. Regardless of whether or not mainstream media attempted to contact relevant representatives, the Muslim community has a core group of civil and legal rights organizations, leaders and activists that could have stepped forward when the opportunity was ripe - but as it happened, the activism boat left the dock with no passengers on board. Educating and Supporting the Masses Is it so difficult to see that the Muslim community is in need of a wake-up call? Until the distribution of knowledge and rhetoric needed to equip Imams, congregations, representatives and activists with a standard position on sensitive issues can be unilaterally agreed upon, mandated, and taught, Muslims and their religion will continue to be targets of negativity and intolerance. The risk of drowning in pools of multi-cultural chaos is eminent unless solid leadership can be established. When asked 12-years ago by a close non-Muslim friend why she had started to wear hijab after embracing Islam, Donna Catz of Detroit, Michigan, recalls her frustration in being unable to succinctly respond to her friend's pointed questions. "Why," Donna's friend asserted, "would a woman choose to wear a head scarf, and resign herself to being restrained from embracing her God-given sexuality?" Donna, too new in her Muslim shoes to defend a decision made in faith, was unable to satisfy her friend's thirst for a reasonable explanation addressing a mandate that was rendered through the revelation of the Qur'an over 1400 years ago. While Donna's friend relished the male attention she attracted in her fashionable wardrobe, neatly styled hair, and immaculately applied make-up, the opportunity was missed to convey that the headscarf is a part of a dress code mandated by modesty. It is what separates and liberates a woman from being seen as a mere sexual object, thereby rendering unto her the respect she not only deserves but is also entitled to under the directives of Islamic teachings. Hijab accentuates a woman's honor and self-worth by enabling those she encounters to value her as a person of intelligence and viability vs. merely formulating an opinion based on her sexuality. The modesty prescribed by the Islamic dress code as a whole also helps to preserve a moral society by nipping in the bud what is usually regarded as the first step in any illicit relationship - the look that attracts. Suppression of that first look should not be mistaken as something oppressive. It is important for Muslims to be able to convey that the hijab and overall general modest attire are not meant to repress a woman's sexuality, but are intended to elevate and sanctify it. The teaching that a Muslim woman's beauty and sexual allure are not for public viewing is mandated merely because it is believed that she should be treasured and protected. What can be seen in the home should not be seen in the streets. It takes dignity and self-confidence for a Muslim woman to don her hijab in societies that mock and misunderstand its merits. Reinforcing the teachings of the Islamic religion, and learning how to accept cultural differences within the Muslim community itself, from the level of those just entering the faith to those who are in leadership positions, serving as role models, media representatives, and activists, can help reverse the epidemic of negativity that misinformation, miscommunication and intolerance have propagated due to the unfortunate events of 9/11. It's time to make a difference on individual levels through the support, education and training of the Donna Catzs of the Muslim community and the re-education of its general members - those born and raised in Muslim families, including those that have migrated to the United States and bring with them crippling intolerance for one another's cultural differences, which becomes even more exacerbated as they form their own "cliques" in an attempt to survive in a new environment. Revitalizing the Muslim Community A Washington Post/ABC poll released in March 2006 recorded that nearly half of Americans admitted that they have a negative view of Islam. In another poll conducted for the Council of American-Islamic Relations, most people also said that they would feel better about Muslims and Islam if they felt women received better treatment. In many Muslim communities complacency has in essence granted its members an unspoken permission to sit back and wait for someone else to enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong. This is a dangerous misrepresentation that must be eradicated before Muslims can expect the rest of the world to see Islam in its true beauty. As ignorance and intolerance of the Islamic faith is replaced with understanding and acceptance, maybe incidents like the song and dance over whether Jill Carroll was forced to wear a headscarf during her captivity and whether she felt pressure to wear it afterwards will become synonymous with the past. Rather than sitting idly by while trying to conceptualize why it was that Jill Carroll wore a headscarf at one press conference and not at another, the Muslim community should commend her for respecting the religion and culture of the country in which she had spent the three years prior to her kidnapping striving to support and understand through her reporting. "Covering the war gives journalists an opportunity to recall the noblest tenets of their profession and fulfill the public service role of journalism," Jill Carroll stated when asked why she was willing to put her life on the line in Iraq. Imagine globally unified Muslim organizations, representatives, and individuals bridging cultural divides and dedicating themselves to standing up for the noblest tenets of their faith and to fulfill the public service role in propagating the true message of Islam. Jill Carroll's compassion and open-mindedness for a way of life other than her own is an example that should be exemplified and emulated. Let us all wake up and see what we can do to help make that happen. On the Net Muslimah Writers Alliance Naseebvibes Articles by Aishah Schwartz at Naseebvibes • LA Muslim Woman Murder Case • Al-Jamarat: The Rest of the Story