By Voice of Libyan Women
Tripoli, 11 February 2014
On February 12, 2009, Aasiya Zubair, a Muslim American co-founder of Bridges TV (a . . .[restrict]network dedicated to promoting cultural awareness about Muslims), was murdered her husband. he cut off her head. Prior to her death, she had faced countless incidents of domestic abuse. Her husband excused himself in court, stating that Islamicly it was permissible for him to kill her as she did not obey him
Zubair’s death has sparked a grassroots movement among Muslim communities around the world to end domestic violence. Many initiatives were created including International Wear a Purple Hijab Day.
International Purple Hijab Day on 13 February is a day in which all Muslims, men and women, unite against domestic abuse. The Voice of Libyan Women (VLW), a leading Libyan women’s NGO, is calling on everyone to wear a purple hijab, scarf or necktie to show their support for this cause. The campaign is to stress that domestic abuse in any form is not in any way tolerated.
It has been argued many times that violence against women is allowed in Islam, however, this is a grave falsehood due to the misinterpretation and misuse of religion. Islam does not teach, condone, or allow for the abuse of any living thing. It teaches Muslims not to harm others and Muslims are taught to believe there is a grave punishment for Muslims who do harm to others or abuse the land, sea or plant life.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the example of how excellent a human being can be, was known to have never harmed anyone in his family. He only used violence when on the battlefield against a clearly identified enemy. He taught self-restraint and peace during his time here on earth.
Muslim advocates against domestic violence want to make it clear without any doubt that these heinous crimes that have been committed in some of the homes in the Islamic community are not supported by the Holy Quran or the valid Hadith (the sayings of the Prophet) and are not the norm.
These are learned behaviours that have nothing to do with religious teachings or practices. On February 13, we are asking you to participate with women around the world in speaking out against domestic abuse. As a Muslim community, let us support this cause and protect what is sacred to our religion and human rights. Wear your purple clothing proudly as you take on this mission of continuing the education of domestic violence to your own communities.
We appreciate all your support on this day and ask you to please wear purple hijabs, scarves or neckties on 13 February 2014.
For more information about International Purple Hijab Day as well as the VLW, see their Facebook page
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