‘Banat Akhir Zaman’ Launches Feminist Campaign
BEIRUT;
March 7, 2008 – In the spirit of the International
Women’s Day, Banat Akhir Zaman, a grassroots movement
that seeks to achieve gender equality in Lebanon, have
launched their mission and objectives online at
www.banatakhirzaman.org. The name, which in Arabic means
“girls of the last times,” is derived from a common
Lebanese phrase used to indicate disapproval with young
women’s behavior that does not adhere to strict
traditional norms. The campaign advocates for the
personal, social, economic, and political rights of
women through empowerment and consciousness-raising.
The core
of Banat Akhir Zaman’s mission is a belief in the
indivisibility of women’s rights, that no single issue
is more important than the other, and that feminism
starts within. At the top of their list are goals
towards sexual and reproductive rights, which have long
been a taboo in Middle East and discussed only through
sensationalist media. These include programs to advocate
for legal and safe abortions, sexual health services,
and campaigns to eradicate rape and sexual harassment.
“Young
women in Lebanon are little aware of the oppressions and
injustices they face on a daily basis,” says Nadine
Moawad, Campaign Manager. “We have become accustomed to
sexism, to fear, to limitations, to abuse, and our basic
human rights are long overdue.”
The
campaign believes that only a woman’s personal
liberation can lead to economic equality, political and
legal reform, sustainable peace and true democracy.
Other objectives include support for marginalized women
and women-owned businesses, advocacy for more women in
political leadership, and raising national awareness
about feminism, the radical notion that men and women
are equal.
Banat
Akhir Zaman is entirely run by women volunteers and
calls upon women who share similar values to join the
campaign through the website
www.banatakhirzaman.org.
Welcome to our website
And thank you
for visiting our new website. In a nutshell, we
are a small group of young women working to build a
feminist movement in Lebanon. We believe that big change
comes from small initiatives.
We are
currently in a phase of brainstorming and planning, so
it's a perfect time to join us. Get in touch and book an appointment to come talk to us about
your opinions, ideas, and issues, please give us a call
on 01-362592 or email
info@banatakhirzaman.org.
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