Programs & events
Sixteen Days of activism against Gender-based violence
Between November 26-December 10, 2008, U.S. Embassy Niamey will honor the occasion of the U.N.-sponsored “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence” by offering a series of programs to raise awareness on this issues of gender-based violence and women’s rights in Niger. On December 4, 2008, the Embassy hosted the second event in its series with a presentation by respected Muslim cleric Cheikh Harouna Fodi. Cheik Fodi’s presentation dealt with protection of women and women’s rights within the context of the Islamic faith. Fodi gave a detailed account of the importance that Islam bestows upon women and their contribution to society. He cited several Koranic verses stating that men and women are complementary, are to be afforded the same rights and considerations, and that only their efforts should distinguish them in terms of merit.
The speaker lamented that negative attitudes of some Muslims towards women contribute to misperceptions about Islam, which in reality extends rights and protections to all, including to non-Muslims. In the lively debate that followed, representatives of various women's associations provided examples of continuing instances of violence against women and children, and urged Niger’s religious leadership to work to raise awareness among the general population and to improve respect for women rights in accordance with Islam’s tenets. Guests included Ambassador Allen, who gave the opening address, the secretary general of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Islamic association leaders, and representatives of women’s rights groups and NGOs.
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| Respected Muslim cleric Cheikh Harouna Fodi (right) during his presentation. |
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A view of participats during Cheik Fodi’s presentation which dealt with protection of women and women’s rights within the context of the Islamic faith |