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?
Interpretation
The quote highlights the strength and potential of Yemeni women, advocating for empowerment and recognition beyond stereotypes.
Tawakkol Karman's quote emphasizes the resilience and capabilities of Yemeni women, urging society to acknowledge their strength and the importance of empowerment. It challenges prevailing stereotypes and calls for a recognition of their humanity and desire for dignity, suggesting that all people, regardless of gender or background, deserve to live with respect and honor.
In practice
In a speech addressing gender equality, this quote can serve as a powerful reminder of women's strength and resilience.
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.
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.
I can't let my mother's death have been in vain. Democracy is the best revenge, and we will have it.
Power can be taken, but not given. The process of the taking is empowerment in itself.
Alas, not me, lord!" she said. "Shadow lies on me still. Look not to me for healing! I am a shieldmaiden and my hand is ungentle.
I will not agree to go to war in the Donbass. I know there are a lot of hotheads, especially those who hold rallies and say, 'Let's go fight and win it all back!' But at what price? What is the cost? It's another story of lives and land. And I won't do it.
There's no reason for the establishment to fear me. But it has every right to fear the people collectively - I am one with the people.
I hope to live long enough to see my surviving comrades march side by side with the Union veterans along Pennsylvania Avenue, and then I will die happy.
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