Abomination Quote by Mona Eltahawy
“Slavish obedience to the clerics, who know how to squeeze every last drop of advantage out of religion, is killing our girls. We must speak-blaspheme, if necessary; be accused of being apostates, if that is what is required. Muslims are taught that Islam put an end to the Arabian practice of burying alive newborn baby girls because they were considered worthless and a burden, but as long as we stay quiet in the face of the abomination of child marriage, we are effectively burying our girls alive today.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New York Times, 2015
Advocates vocal opposition to religiously justified oppression of girls, urging defiance even if labeled apostate.
In simple terms: Speak out against harmful traditions that silence girls.
Key Takeaway
Challenge oppressive norms loudly.
Themes
gender equality
human rights
religion
activism
Mood
defiant
urgent
empathetic
Type
advocacy
call to action
When to use this quote
- child marriage
- female education
- legal reform
- community activism
Key Concepts
feminism
social justice
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How can activists protect themselves while confronting tradition?
- What strategies can shift cultural norms without inciting violence?
A Different Perspective
Risk of backlash and alienation from religious communities.
