I discovered that wearing the veil is not suitable for a woman who wants to work in activism and the public domain. People need to see you, to associate and relate to you. It is not stated in my religion to wear the veil; it is a traditional practice, so I took it off.
I want a future where my children feel safe and appreciated and proud to be who they are. My heart is one with all the Arab Spring heroes, no matter how small they think their role is. I know they believe, like me, that we are working for a world whereby an Arab can live with the other in a respectful and dignified way.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a desire for a future where children feel safe and respected in their identities, reflecting on the importance of dignity and unity among people.
Tawakkol Karman's quote emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and proud environment for future generations, particularly in the context of social and political change, like that seen during the Arab Spring. It highlights the collective effort of individuals, regardless of how small their contributions may seem, in striving for a world where respect and dignity prevail among all people, promoting unity and understanding across cultural divides.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech highlighting the importance of community support and empathy for children's growth.
More from Tawakkol Karman
All quotes →I would like the world to know that Yemeni women are strong, and if empowered, they can achieve. The world needs to look beyond stereotypes and dress code. In our hearts, we are just human beings who want to live a dignified life. Is that too much to ask for?
I have always believed that resistance against repression and violence is possible without relying on similar repression and violence. I have always believed that human civilization is the fruit of the effort of both women and men.
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Conversations create change. It's easy to call someone 'enemy,' but there's more to it, right?
I believe that worrying about the problems plaguing our planet without taking steps to confront them is absolutely irrelevant. The only thing that changes this world is taking action.
The way we live our daily lives is what most effects the situation of the world. If we can change our daily lives, then we can change our governments and can change the world. Our president and governments are us. They reflect our lifestyle and our way of thinking. The way we hold a cup of tea, pick up the newspaper or even use toilet paper are directly related to peace.
Change is the principal feature of our age and literature should explore how people deal with it. The best science fiction does that, head-on.