Every religion curbs women rights to some extent. Some countries acted against religions and put a ban on wearing hijab, which was also a violation of human rights.
We are so resilient as a people. I have so much respect for their dignity and courage. I hope the world sees this side of Pakistan, one where professionals want a democracy. The spirit of our intelligentsia cannot be broken.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the resilience and dignity of the people of Pakistan, highlighting their desire for democracy.
In this quote, Asma Jahangir reflects on the strength and dignity of the Pakistani people, particularly in the face of challenges. She expresses admiration for their courage and underscores the importance of showcasing a positive image of Pakistan to the world, one that shows the aspirations of its professionals towards a democratic society. This highlights the unbreakable spirit of the country's intelligentsia and their commitment to progress despite adversity.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speech addressing young professionals in Pakistan to inspire pride in their resilience.
More from Asma Jahangir
All quotes βThere have always been difficult situations for activists in Pakistan. In the 1960s, people fought for linguistic and ethnic rights in relation to the Bangladesh movement and the struggle of the people in the western Balochistan province.
In 1986, Pakistan got the blasphemy law. So, while we had just two cases of blasphemy before that year, now we have thousands. It shows that one should be careful while bringing religion into legislation, because the law itself can become an instrument of persecution.
I'm not fearful for myself, because I've seen adversity, and I can see it again. But I feel very upset and anguished when I see images of young lawyers beaten up.
Duplicity in matters of religion is not confined to Pakistan, but it hurts the most in societies where debate on religion is asphyxiated and preachers of hate have become keepers of faith.
Terrorism does not disappear with revenge tactics but through making justice and equality before law a reality.
Similar quotes
The two great risks are risking too much but also risking too little. That's for each person to decide. For me, not risking anything is worse than death. By far.
Those in powerless positions aren't about to complain about bullying bosses, abusive supervisors or corrupt co-workers. There is no safe way to do so and no process that promises redress.
A hero does for others. He would do anything for people he loves, because he knows it would make their lives better. I am not that kind of person, but I want you to be. You could give something to her, to me, to those children in the quarter. You could give something I never could ... The white people out there are saying you don't have it-that you're a hog, not a man. But I know they are wrong.
I can write about my culture and religion because I am a product of both. Even when I'm accused of giving ammunition to the Islamophobic right, in the struggle between 'community' and 'women,' I always choose the women.
The horrific cases in Ferguson, in Staten Island with the death of Eric Garner, and all across the country serve as stark reminders that we must have a say in who polices us, and how that policing is done. We must, we must, let our voices be heard on Election Day.
As citizens, we all have an obligation to intervene and become involved - it's the citizen who changes things.