1. MUSLIM WOMEN AS BRIDGERS OF FAITH Presentation for Manchester Centre for Public Theology (MCPT) by Robina Ahmad

2. Aims and objectives Aim: To highlight the contribution that muslim women have made and are making to the building of society Objectives: brief historical and Quranic perspective, role of muslim women in society, in Britain and issues that they face in terms of being able to fulfil that role. Some recommendations.

3. Quranic perspective-spiritual capital-the drive Created from the same soul and hence same responsibilities and duties, whether social or spiritual Quran gives the highest of status to women as builders of society….status of Mary, Bilquiss (Sheba), Wives of Abraham, early muslim society Amr bil maruf wa nahi anil munkar (To uphold the good and forbid the evil). Reference to the establishment of social justice Muslims are the Khalifah (custodians) of earth

4. Establishment of a fair and just society To promote fairness and justice In terms of religious freedom Health, education, other fundamental human rights Begins from home and reflected in the society Success at a worldly level and ultimate success in the Life After death Religious ritual etc only a means to an end. End is as mentioned above

5. EXAMPLES OF MUSLIM WOMEN FROM THE EARLY SOCIETY TO THE OTTOMAN TIMES As scholars Judges Philanthropy Educational establishments Interfaith collaborations- with local communities and monarchies.

6. MUSLIM WOMEN IN GREATER MANCHESTER- CHALLENGES Diversity and promoting understanding amongst the various faith communities- national muslims interfaith network Violence and other crimes in society- 2 women die a week from domestic violence, family life, parenting, third more muslims youth in prison than indigenous community Poverty and fairtrade, other environmental issues Education- muslim children are the lower achievers, especially from the Bangladeshi and Pakistani More contribution at the highest (effective) political level Tackling negative perceptions of muslim women and Islam

7. SETTING THE SCENE Muslim community is the most ethnically diverse, from British converts to Asian African emigrants. Greatest number of languages and cultures The most youngest, yet the largest of the religious communities, after Christianity 60% of muslims under the age of 25, thus a young thriving community

8. MUSLIMS WOMEN IN ACTION Education- religious and otherwise- study circles, Islamic schools and nursery all set up by women Philanthropy. Linking up with local and international charities, women are the most donors, muslim community the most generous Interfaith work/dialogue- have been active within Manchester for the last 20 years Some political involvement- as councillors

9. FOOD FOR THOUGHT (RECOMMENDATIONS) More active and effective interfaith partnerships and addressing social issues, set agreed targets, within Greater Manchester Policy makers, government departments to consult the interfaith networks and actively engage in policy formulation (not to clear up the mess afterwards) Interfaith network very actively oppose the victimisation of religious communities Interfaith networks to work on active projects in the community at all levels as counsellors, chaplaincies (within hospitals and prisons) Education of faith communities about each other

10. Thank you Robina@culturendiversitytrainingservices. co.uk Robina@culturendiversitytrainingservices. co.uk