.... The fact that some Islamic societies are run or dominated by ultra-conservatives is undeniable and I share concerns that such individuals limit female participation, either as speakers or as members.
Separate seating can reflect an idealisation of a Saudi-style system where men and women hardly interact outside of a familial setting. This de-facto disempowers women who are reduced to existing in a male universe.
This is neither desirable, nor Islamic. But prohibiting separate seating doesn’t resolve underlying sexism, it merely forces its advocates off campus where the views expressed are less likely to be challenged. And what does it say of more progressive interpretations if the only way to encourage them is through legal imposition?
[A COMMENT] "Banning segregated seating will do nothing to resolve the misogyny which at times underpins it." So you want to condone it? Some logic you have going on there lady.
[ANOTHER COMMENT] The Abrahamic religions were developed in deeply patriarchal and misogynist cultures. All three regard women as 'the other' to be subjugated and controlled.
They now try to impose their outmoded orthodoxy by arguing freedom of speech or freedom of conscience.
If a speaker demanded that jews or blacks or homosexuals were segregated at events, they wouldn't get a hearing, so why are these arguments accepted where women are concerned? [The Independent] Read more
