KARAMAH: Muslim Women Lawyers for Human Rights hosted a meeting on Friday, July 17 between congressmen Keith Ellison and André Carson, the first Muslims in U.S. Congress, and a delegation of Muslim women leaders from the U.S. and around the world to discuss civic engagement and leadership models for pursuing change within their communities.
The meeting was part of KARAMAH’s seventh annual Law and Leadership Summer Program, a three-week conference designed to equip Muslim women with the legal skills and leadership training they need to articulate their rights and bring about change in their countries.
“This may be one of the most important times in recent history for your work,” said Rep. Ellison to the delegation of approximately 25 Muslim women leaders from the U.S., Canada, Belgium, Bangladesh, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, and Afghanistan.
“Some of the conflicts that are rooted in authoritarian regimes, it is within our grasp to solve them, but it can’t be done without the urgent action of women,” said Rep. Ellison. "We have serious issues with regards to women’s rights, and you guys are in many ways at the frontlines of solving these problems. Where we have sexism, discrimination and oppression, there we are backwards. Your voice is critical at this time.”
Rep. Carson stressed the need for increased civic engagement among Muslim women.
“We need to see more women involved in the process,” said Rep. Carson. “We should have more Muslim women heads of state. We need more Muslim women at the forefront of leadership.”
One does not have to be a president or prime minister to make a difference, said Rep. Ellison. He quoted religious text: “Allah says in the Qu’ran that anyone who saves the life of one person saves the life of the world.”
Rep. Ellison praised women worldwide for increasing their presence in policymaking roles.
“Around the world we have seen women stepping up to the plate,” said Rep. Ellison. “Who will set forth policies to allow changes to take place? Women lawyers like you.”
Rep. Carson praised KARAMAH for its work supporting human rights for Muslim women.
“KARAMAH is a wonderful organization, not only built to serve humanity but to nurture future leaders,” said Rep. Carson. “Brothers and sisters, you have a friend in Congressman Carson. KARAMAH has a friend in Congressman Carson.”
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