Domestic violence is definitely a very sensitive topic. On June 13th, 2015, the IISC organized a workshop with Sh. Navaid Aziz and Muslim social worker Nadia Ramadan from the Calgary Immigrant Women's Association. The workshop was held at the Sheraton Cavalier from 12pm to 2pm.
Sh. Navaid's focus was on developing a correct understanding of verse 4:34, which is often used to justify violence against women. He further elaborated on the different types of abuse that may take place in a relationship and how they too are prohibited. Lastly, the Quranic perspective of the husband and wife relationship, and how the Prophet (SAW) perfectly represented it with his beautiful character.
Sr. Nadia focused on what are some of the signs of being in a violent relationship, as well as what can be done to help those that we are worried about. She discussed various resources that are available for those that are in troubling relationships, and how everyone's needs can be catered to. She discussed the various court injunctions that are in play to protect women who are in abusive relationships.
During the question and answer session it was clear that the people in attendance believed that domestic violence is indeed a reality that is often kept quiet about, Everyone knows someone who is some how effected by domestic violence. The aim of the workshop was to educate people so that when they encounter someone effected by domestic violence they will at the very least know what resources are available and where to direct them. We may not always be able to measure success but at the end of the day if one person walks away with information needed to save their own life or someone else's, that is success.
Abu Sa’eed al-Khudree (may Allah be pleased with him) who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say, “Whosoever of you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand; and if he is not able to do so, then [let him change it] with his tongue; and if he is not able to do so, then with his heart — and that is the weakest of faith.” [Muslim]
The IISC plans to hold another workshop on domestic violence in the future, and will continue to address issues that are often not discussed in the community, insha Allah!
Sr Nadia can be reached at
Calgary Immigrant Women's Association
200, 138 - 4th Avenue SE
Calgary, AB T2G 4Z6
403-263-4414 x 172
For further reading: http://cdn.muslimmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/The-End-to-Hitting-Wome-2-2.pdf