PDF Summary:Nine Parts of Desire, by Geraldine Brooks

In Nine Parts of Desire, Geraldine Brooks explores the complex and diverse experiences of women in Muslim societies. She delves into the cultural norms, traditions, and religious interpretations that shape and often restrict women's autonomy in countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran. Yet Brooks also highlights pioneering women who challenge those norms through activism, scholarship, and by pursuing careers in fields traditionally dominated by men.

Brooks also examines efforts to promote gender equality within an Islamic framework, examining debates around women's rights, education, and societal roles. By sharing the stories of Muslim women's struggles and triumphs, the book provides a nuanced understanding of how Islamic principles intersect with universal human rights and women's empowerment movements.

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The accessibility of learning and advancement options for women differs among countries with a majority Muslim populace.

Brooks highlights the considerable differences in educational prospects for women across diverse Muslim societies, noting the influence of cultural norms and political agendas on these opportunities. She underscores the contrast between the scant educational and literacy prospects for women in Saudi Arabia and Iran's post-revolutionary attitude, which considers women's education crucial to the development of a strong Islamic society.

Attempts to establish schools for girls have encountered opposition within Saudi Arabia and among communities that share comparable traditional beliefs.

The author examines the obstacles that Saudi Arabian women must overcome to access educational opportunities, emphasizing the deep-seated resistance to the idea of educating women. Brooks describes Iffat, who was married to King Faisal, as having been instrumental in founding Dar al Hanan in 1956, the first school for girls. The establishment had to function ostensibly as an orphanage to comply with the mandates of religious leaders, underscoring the entrenched opposition to female education.

Brooks recounts the upheaval in Burayda, where the establishment of initial educational institutions for girls sparked protests so vehement that it necessitated the intervention of the National Guard by King Faisal to reestablish order. She attributes the considerable opposition to Wahhabi teachings, which advocate for extremely limited roles for women and are characterized by a rigid interpretation of the principles of Islam. Brooks' historical narrative illuminates the considerable challenges faced by women advocating for basic educational rights within traditional Islamic societies.

Context

• Economic considerations, such as the perceived cost of educating girls versus boys, can also play a role in opposition, especially in resource-limited settings.
• In some regions, the lack of safe and reliable transportation to schools can be a significant barrier for girls, especially in rural areas where schools may be far from home.
• Patriarchal systems often resist changes that empower women, as these can challenge existing hierarchies and power relations within families and communities.
• Before the establishment of Dar al Hanan, educational opportunities for girls in Saudi Arabia were virtually non-existent, with most educational efforts focused on boys and religious studies.
• As a member of the royal family, Iffat had a unique position that allowed her to push boundaries more than others might have been able to, using her influence to advocate for women's education.
• King Faisal was a reform-minded leader who sought to modernize Saudi Arabia, including improving education. His support for girls' education was part of broader efforts to develop the country, but it faced pushback from conservative factions.
• The events in Burayda are part of a larger historical narrative of resistance to change in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the broader struggle between modernization and traditionalism in the region.
• In Wahhabi doctrine, gender roles are strictly defined, with an emphasis on traditional family structures. Men are typically seen as providers and protectors, while women are expected to focus on domestic responsibilities.
• This is a conservative branch of Sunni Islam originating in Saudi Arabia. It emphasizes a strict interpretation of Islamic texts and has historically influenced policies that restrict women's rights, including education.

Women's opportunities for advanced education were restricted, and they experienced segregation.

Brooks sheds light on the inherent restrictions and separation present within the schooling systems of some nations. Saudi Arabia enforces strict regulations regarding the enrollment of women in its universities. The author details the methods by which female students maintain separation from their male teachers, utilizing technology such as video transmissions and telephonic communication to uphold a strict separation and prevent any visual "contamination."

The author elaborates on the limitations imposed on women desiring to further their education abroad, noting that since 1980, the Saudi Arabian government has stopped awarding women scholarships for international university studies, rationalizing that the domestic educational facilities are sufficient for their scholarly needs. Women hailing from Iran and Egypt actively participate in coeducational higher education and pursue higher-level qualifications abroad, underscoring a stark divergence from the limitations found elsewhere. Through these comparisons, Brooks demonstrates that restrictive rules not only impede women's intellectual development but also their complete integration into societal structures.

Practical Tips

• Use your consumer power to support businesses that advocate for women's education. Research and purchase from companies that have programs or partnerships aimed at improving education for women in restrictive environments. For example, buying from a brand that donates a percentage of profits to educational charities for women can make a direct impact.
• Consider creating a blog or vlog series that highlights how technology facilitates culturally sensitive education. Share stories and interviews with students from various backgrounds, focusing on how they use technology to adhere to their cultural norms in educational settings. This could include a feature on how female students in gender-segregated societies use tech to interact with male teachers while maintaining cultural practices.
• You can support educational opportunities for women by creating a scholarship fund. Start by setting aside a small amount of your monthly income to contribute to a scholarship for women who wish to study abroad. Partner with local educational institutions or non-profits to identify potential candidates and manage the fund.
• Enhance your global perspective by enrolling in online courses offered by universities in Iran and Egypt. Many institutions offer remote learning opportunities, and by participating, you not only gain knowledge in your field of interest but also experience different educational approaches and perspectives.

Efforts by women to expand educational opportunities.

Brooks highlights the efforts of women to expand educational opportunities. She tells the story of Basilah al-Homoud, the Saudi school principal who established Dar al Fikr in Jeddah, an institution committed to offering girls an education that meets international standards. Despite navigating a restrictive system, Basilah champions a liberal approach to education that encompasses languages, arts, sciences, and even traditionally male-dominated subjects like motor mechanics, which allows her students to excel.

The writer chronicles the triumphs and obstacles encountered by women in Saudi Arabia as they strive for higher education. She notes the evident happiness and pride among the initial group of women graduating from university in the early 1970s, but she also conveys her dismay at the omission of these women's names from the official graduation lists, underscoring the persistent disregard for the achievements of women. Brooks emphasizes the contrast between the constraints placed upon women and their remarkable academic successes in higher education, attributing these victories to diligent effort and focus in a setting where opportunities for them are limited. In her illustrations, Brooks highlights the strength and determination of women as they overcome barriers to education in communities deeply rooted in Islamic traditions.

Context

• Basilah al-Homoud's efforts would have involved navigating complex cultural and bureaucratic challenges, as educational reforms for women often face resistance in conservative societies.
• Dar al Fikr's approach to education reflects a progressive philosophy that challenges traditional gender roles by including subjects like motor mechanics, which are typically associated with male education. This approach aims to empower female students by providing them with skills and knowledge that broaden their career opportunities.
• Women were often restricted from studying certain subjects deemed inappropriate or unnecessary for their gender, such as engineering or law, limiting their career opportunities.
• The omission of women's names can be seen as a symbolic act that underscores the invisibility of women's contributions in a patriarchal society, despite their achievements and the progress being made in educational access.
• Educated women contribute significantly to the workforce and economy, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, a plan to increase women's participation in the labor market.
• The determination to succeed academically often involves developing resilience and coping strategies to handle societal pressures and personal challenges.
• Access to education for women in these communities often leads to broader social changes, including improved economic opportunities, better health outcomes, and increased political participation.

The participation of women in occupational and community endeavors.

This section delves into the complex and often contentious issue of female participation in employment and communal spaces within Muslim societies. Brooks disputes the monolithic perception that Muslim women are confined to domestic duties, emphasizing the growing contingent of women who break traditional norms by pursuing diverse professional paths.

Discriminatory practices and rules that limit employment prospects for females.

Brooks sheds light on the biased perspectives and tactics that often limit opportunities for women to progress professionally. In Saudi Arabia, she emphasizes that women must obtain their husbands' permission to work, a regulation that curtails the independence of even highly qualified professionals like Faiza Ambah, a journalist who navigates a societal framework dominated by the authority her male relatives have regarding her freedoms.

The author examines the strict interpretations often used to justify barring women from work, interpretations attributed to the teachings of Islam. She discusses the viewpoint of the religious editor at the Saudi Gazette, who maintains that a woman's foremost responsibility is to excel in domestic tasks, be an exemplary spouse, and nurture her offspring with great attention, while also recognizing that a woman's engagement in the workforce is permissible solely under specific circumstances and contingent upon her husband's conclusive say regarding her job. Brooks emphasizes examples that demonstrate persistent prejudices that continue to marginalize numerous women within specific Islamic societies.

Practical Tips

• You can start a peer mentoring circle at work to foster mutual professional development among women. By pairing up with colleagues, you can create a supportive environment where you can share experiences, discuss strategies to overcome biases, and provide each other with feedback. This can help identify and challenge any unconscious biases within the workplace and empower each participant to pursue opportunities more confidently.

Other Perspectives

• The permission requirement does not uniformly apply across all sectors and regions within Saudi Arabia, with some areas and industries offering more progressive environments for women's employment.
• The teachings of Islam, as interpreted by various scholars, do not universally bar women from work; rather, they emphasize the importance of mutual consent and respect within the family structure, which can be supportive of women's employment.
• It overlooks the economic necessity for many women to work outside the home and contribute to the household income.
• Employment should be a right accessible to all adults, regardless of gender, to ensure fair and equal opportunities for economic advancement.
• It is important to differentiate between cultural practices and the religion of Islam itself, as some discriminatory practices may be culturally rooted rather than religiously mandated.

Women who have broken through conventional boundaries and achieved notable success in areas like business, politics, and the military.

Brooks commends the trailblazing women who have broken traditional barriers and carved out their careers in various fields such as business, politics, and the particularly uncommon realm of military service within Islamic societies. The author introduces Basilah al-Homoud, a woman at the helm of a prestigious educational institution for women in Jeddah, who also took over the reins of the family's construction enterprise after her father died. Basilah takes a pragmatic approach to segregation, choosing to conduct business negotiations via closed-circuit television to avoid being dominated by her male colleagues.

The author also profiles Hero Ahmed, a psychologist of Kurdish descent who committed twelve years of her life to the Kurdish independence movement while serving with the Pesh Merga. Hero documented the atrocities committed during Saddam Hussein's regime through photography while in the mountains and subsequently became one of the seven women serving in the Kurdish parliament. Brooks highlights the pivotal role played by Hadra Dawish, a soldier from the Emirates, in paving the way for women's participation in the Emirates' military forces. Hadra, who once concealed herself with an abaya and a veil for her face, now expresses her national pride by wearing uniforms that camouflage into the dry terrain, defying societal norms. Through these compelling narratives, Brooks challenges traditional views by highlighting the courage, resolve, and commitment of women who have contributed significantly and diversely to their societies.

Practical Tips

• Develop a mini-case study by analyzing a successful project in your community. Choose a recent community project that was well-received and document the steps taken from inception to completion. This exercise can help you understand project management and leadership dynamics in a real-world setting, which you can then apply to your own endeavors.
• Encourage equal participation by implementing a speaking time tracker during video calls. This tool would monitor how much each participant speaks, aiming to give everyone an equal voice. If you notice an imbalance, you could introduce structured turn-taking to ensure all parties are heard equally.
• Encourage young women to consider careers in politics by volunteering as a mentor for programs aimed at high school or college students. Share insights about the importance of diverse representation in political bodies and provide guidance on how they can get involved in student government or local community initiatives.
• You can honor trailblazers in your field by sharing their stories on social media. Create a weekly post highlighting an individual who has broken barriers or paved the way for others in your profession. Use hashtags related to your field and the theme of trailblazing to increase visibility and inspire your network.
• Start a "challenge the norm" journal where you document daily actions or decisions that go against traditional expectations. This could be as simple as speaking up in a meeting when you might usually stay quiet or trying a new hobby that's typically associated with the opposite gender. Reflect on these experiences weekly to see how small acts of courage can lead to personal growth and broader societal change.

Conversations regarding appropriate roles for women outside of household duties.

Brooks explores the vibrant debates within Muslim societies regarding the appropriate roles of women in societal affairs. She highlights the tension between long-standing traditions, often rooted in Islamic teachings, and modern life, where the necessity for economic sustenance and the aspirations of females drive them to seek professional employment.

The author describes how Adela, persuaded by her husband from Saudi Arabia, abandoned a challenging career to become a secretary in an educational institution for girls, a position that reduced her contact with men. This perspective, rooted in the belief that a woman's participation in a male-dominated work environment might result in dishonor and disrepute for her family members, is in stark opposition to the actual experiences of individuals like Nasi Ravandoost, who oversees a valve manufacturing plant and fervently supports greater female participation in business ventures. Brooks depicts the tension between entrenched patriarchal attitudes and the desires of many women to participate actively in their societies.

Practical Tips

• Reflect on your career choices by journaling to understand the influence of others on your decisions. Write down key moments when you made significant career decisions and note who was involved and how they might have influenced you. This can help you identify patterns and ensure future decisions align more closely with your personal goals and values.
• Encourage open conversations with family members about the value of diverse workplaces. Use examples from everyday life, such as a female relative who excels in her career, to illustrate how women's professional success can be a source of pride rather than dishonor.
• Start a book club focused on female entrepreneurs and business leaders to inspire and educate others about the contributions of women in business. This doesn't require specialized skills, just a willingness to read, discuss, and learn. You could select books written by or about successful female business figures, and meet monthly with a group to discuss their strategies and achievements.
• Encourage equal participation in household decision-making by implementing a 'decision jar' where all family members can submit topics they want to discuss. Set aside a regular time each week to draw a topic from the jar and discuss it as a family, ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, has a voice in family matters. This practice can help break down patriarchal dynamics within the home.

The intersection of Islamic principles with the broader notion of human rights and the rights of women.

This section delves into the intricate and often contested relationship between universally recognized values for women and all individuals and their intersection with Islamic beliefs. Brooks explores the intricate task of aligning principles that originate from Islamic jurisprudence with universally accepted human rights, and she tackles the heated discussion about whether to place more importance on individual rights or on the power of cultural and religious teachings.

Discrepancies between the principles of Islamic law and worldwide standards of human rights.

Brooks highlights the tension between the principles of Islamic law and universally accepted standards of human rights. She cites examples where laws based on sharia conflict with principles of equality and individual liberty, especially in situations that are prone to the erosion of the rights afforded to women.

Matters concerning the marriage of minors, the dissolution of marital relationships, and the rights that arise after the passing of a relative.

Brooks explores the complex regulations of Islamic customs that dictate practices of early marriage, annulment, and inheritance laws. Geraldine Brooks examines Iran's legal system, which permits the marriage of girls as young as nine, emphasizing the risks to their well-being and the infringement on their right to a complete childhood.

The author scrutinizes the imbalances found within Islamic marital dissolution regulations, particularly highlighting the talaq method, whereby a husband can annul the union by declaring "you are divorced" three times. She highlights the pivotal role Toujan Faisal played in advancing the autonomy of women in divorce cases and securing their rights to child custody on an equal footing by being instrumental in the reform of Jordan's family law system. Brooks explores the divisive issue of inheritance law, emphasizing how sons are allotted a portion twice as large as their sisters', and argues that such practices exacerbate financial disparities, further marginalizing women, especially in cultures where they are primarily responsible for raising children.

Practical Tips

• Create a simple blog or social media page where you share inspirational stories of women who have successfully navigated divorce and custody battles. Use this platform to spread awareness and provide encouragement to others in similar situations, ensuring that the content is accessible and relatable to a broad audience without the need for specialized knowledge.

Other Perspectives

• Islamic customs regarding marriage, annulment, and inheritance are not monolithic and can vary widely among different Islamic cultures and nations, suggesting that the practices are not dictated by a single, uniform set of customs.
• There are movements within Iran advocating for change and reform of these laws, indicating that there is a diversity of opinion within the country itself.
• Historically, early marriages were common and often considered beneficial for forging alliances, continuing family lineage, and ensuring that children were born into stable family units.
• Some argue that the focus on the talaq method overlooks the broader socio-cultural and economic factors that contribute to imbalances in marital dissolution, suggesting that legal reform alone is insufficient without addressing these underlying issues.
• Talaq as a unilateral method of divorce can be seen as a protection for men and women in situations where the marriage has become harmful or untenable, providing a clear and immediate way out, especially in contexts where legal divorce proceedings might be lengthy or inaccessible.
• The effectiveness of the reforms in practice could be questioned, as changing laws does not always translate into immediate or effective changes on the ground, particularly in areas with strong traditional or cultural resistance.
• In certain societies, daughters may receive dowries at the time of marriage, which could be considered an advance on their inheritance, potentially balancing the perceived disparity in inheritance laws.
• In some interpretations, the inheritance rules are flexible and can be adjusted based on the specific circumstances of the family, with the aim of ensuring fairness and the well-being of all family members.
• In some cases, financial disparities do not necessarily marginalize women; instead, they may motivate both societal and individual efforts towards economic empowerment and entrepreneurship among women.

Debates about the validation of encroachments on women's rights by citing "cultural relativism."

Brooks participates actively in the debate about cultural relativism and its role in justifying the encroachment upon the rights of women in Islamic societies. She assesses the position of administrations that are firmly entrenched in the principles of Islam, which show a reluctance to evolve, by stating that in communities where religious beliefs and traditions hold sway, Western notions of human rights carry little weight.

The author analyzes the perspective of Iranian representatives at the 1993 Geneva conference, emphasizing their belief that human rights should be considered within the framework of distinct cultural backgrounds rather than conforming to the globally accepted standards set forth by the International Declaration of Human Rights. Brooks firmly maintains that fundamental safeguards against violence, equitable treatment by the law, and opportunities for education and employment are essential and must not be sacrificed in the name of respecting cultural differences.

Practical Tips

• Engage in role-playing exercises to explore different perspectives. Assume the role of someone from an Islamic society and try to navigate a scenario where change is proposed. This activity can help you empathize with the challenges faced by those in societies resistant to change due to religious beliefs. For instance, role-play a community meeting where a new policy is introduced, and debate its merits and drawbacks from your assigned perspective.
• Explore the intersection of religion and human rights by volunteering with an interfaith organization. Look for local or online groups that work on projects promoting mutual respect and understanding between different faiths. Through volunteering, you'll gain firsthand experience of how religious beliefs can coexist with, challenge, or complement human rights principles.
• You can volunteer with a local legal aid organization to help ensure fair treatment under the law for underserved communities. By offering your time to assist with administrative tasks or community outreach, you contribute to the provision of legal services to those who might not otherwise afford them. This supports the principle of equal justice, as you're directly involved in helping individuals navigate the legal system.

Advocating for equitable and impartial treatment of women in accordance with Islamic tenets.

This section explores the varied strategies employed by supporters committed to advancing women's rights within the framework of Islamic tenets. Brooks acknowledges the challenges involved when engaging with deeply entrenched religious leaders, underscoring the necessity for any reform-oriented conversation to be deeply anchored in Islamic principles and historical precedents.

Advocates for gender equality within the Islamic faith challenge interpretations of sacred texts that are controlled by men.

Brooks emphasizes the meticulous work of feminist scholars in the Muslim community who scrutinize religious texts, challenge readings that perpetuate patriarchal views, and promote understandings that endorse gender parity. She cites Fatima Mernissi's groundbreaking efforts in Morocco, which seek to reveal the liberating core embedded in the initial principles of Islam and contest the historical inaccuracies that have led to the curtailment of women's liberties.

The writer praises the courage of Nawal Saadawi, a psychiatrist from Egypt, for her outspoken opposition to practices like mandatory veiling and female genital mutilation, despite facing potential incarceration and exile. These specialists, possessing profound insights into the historical and jurisprudential aspects of Islam, act as a powerful catalyst for reform, questioning long-established norms from an internal perspective.

Practical Tips

• You can start a virtual book club focused on texts that explore women's roles in various religious contexts. By selecting a range of books that delve into the historical and contemporary experiences of women in different faiths, you'll foster a deeper understanding of the diverse interpretations and practices within these religions. This can lead to informed discussions that challenge misconceptions and highlight the empowering aspects of these traditions.
• Support organizations that work towards the empowerment of women in regions where these practices are prevalent by donating or volunteering remotely, such as through online tutoring or skills training. Your contribution can help provide education and resources that empower women to make informed decisions about their bodies and lives.
• Write a blog or social media posts that explore lesser-known stories of Islamic history. Use these platforms to share insights and raise questions about traditional narratives. This can be a subtle way to encourage readers to think critically about established norms and to appreciate the rich tapestry of Islamic history beyond the mainstream accounts.

Activist efforts to reform discriminatory laws and practices.

Brooks emphasizes the valiant efforts of advocates who persistently fight for changes to prejudicial legislation and traditional practices. She recounts the challenges faced by Toujan Faisal, a politician from Jordan, who encountered significant risks and intense opposition in her efforts to change her nation's family laws.

The author recounts the story of valiant Saudi women who, in 1990, took the wheel themselves in Riyadh after letting go of their drivers, thereby making a bold declaration of their right to drive and challenging the restrictions imposed on their mobility. Despite encountering strong opposition and a subsequent reduction in their liberties, these pioneers laid the groundwork for subsequent activist efforts. Through these inspiring examples, Brooks illustrates that progress typically occurs in small steps, necessitating courage and persistence when confronted with resistance.

Context

• Change is often slow and incremental, requiring sustained effort over many years. Small victories can lead to larger reforms, but setbacks are common, and persistence is crucial.
• Toujan Faisal was the first woman to be elected to the Jordanian parliament, which was a significant achievement in a country where women's political participation was limited.
• The protest was organized by a group of educated and professional women, many of whom had lived abroad and experienced different cultural norms regarding gender equality.
• The protest led to severe repercussions for the women involved, including arrests, job losses, and social ostracism, highlighting the risks faced by activists in authoritarian contexts.
• The act of driving became a symbol of autonomy and resistance against oppressive norms, representing a broader fight for gender equality and personal freedom in a highly conservative society.
• Global attention and support can bolster local efforts, providing additional resources and legitimacy to movements seeking change.

Providing a secure refuge for females subjected to gender-based discrimination.

Brooks champions the creation of a sanctuary dedicated to the protection of women facing persecution on the basis of their sex. She highlights the difficulties faced by "Nada," a young woman from Saudi Arabia, who was compelled to flee to Canada for sanctuary as she faced relentless harassment from religious authorities because she chose to forgo the traditional head covering. The author contends that providing refuge for such causes sends a powerful message to administrations that persistently infringe upon women's liberties, indicating that such conduct is intolerable in countries that uphold essential human rights.

Brooks argues for the expansion of refugee protections to encompass those fleeing persecution based on gender, underscoring the necessity of offering women who flee from violence and oppression opportunities for safety across the globe, regardless of their cultural or religious origins. She firmly believes that this action sends a powerful message of support to women within oppressive societies, motivating them to assert their rights.

Practical Tips

• Start a peer-to-peer lending circle with friends to provide financial assistance to women who are trying to escape discriminatory environments. This microloan system can help women gain the financial independence they need to leave a toxic workplace or domestic situation. Each member contributes a small amount monthly, and the collected sum is lent to a woman in need, who then repays it over time without interest.
• You can deepen your understanding of cultural diversity by engaging with immigrant communities in your area. Start by visiting cultural centers or attending events hosted by immigrant groups to listen to their stories and experiences. This will give you a firsthand perspective on the challenges they face and the strength it takes to overcome them, similar to Nada's journey.
• Start a blog or social media page dedicated to sharing stories and information about gender-based persecution worldwide. By curating content that highlights individual cases and statistical data, you can raise awareness among your peers. For instance, you might post an infographic that shows the number of individuals fleeing gender-based persecution who have been granted or denied refugee status in various countries.
• Create a discreet care package initiative in your community. Gather essential items like toiletries, prepaid cell phones, and gift cards, and partner with local businesses to distribute these packages to women in need without drawing attention, maintaining their safety and dignity.