Women have not been treated as men's equals throughout history. However, according to Islam, , the mercy of God, is for all of mankind and makes no preference to gender. Men and women have a separate but equal place in nature. Neither has a greater value, nor is one superior. Islam teaches that both are equal. The Qur’an states, “Whoso acts righteously, whether male or female, and is a believer, we will surely grant him a pure life; and We will surely bestow on such their reward according to the best of their works” (16:98).
Giving women their rights has been a relatively new issue in our societies. We Americans see ourselves as a highly advanced society, but it wasn’t until 1893 that Colorado became the first state to grant women rights to vote and inherit property. Islam gave women all her rights. Islam is a religion in which a woman has been given such a great place that heaven has been placed under the feet of mothers. As we celebrate Women’s History Month let us honor all women regardless of their religions or ethnic backgrounds.
-Aleena