Often perceived as simply a means for women to socialize, the female majalis (literally, “sitting places”) in Qatar actually serve as important forums for political debate, career networking and other topics, according to newly released research.
The findings of that research will be presented by students and professors from various universities tonight at the Hamad Bin Khalifa University Student Center, during the launch of a new exhibition titled “Her Majlis.”
According to those working on the project, the goal is to highlight the state of affairs of women’s empowerment in Qatar by examining the thoughts and opinions voiced in the majlis al-hareem(female majlis), which some 84 percent of local women participate in.
The term majlis al-hareem is used to describe women-only gatherings that take place in Qatari homes or at majalis next to the home where women gather on a weekly or monthly basis to catch up with friends and family over tea, coffee and snacks.
In a statement, Everette E. Dennis, dean an d CEO of NU-Q, said: “This remarkable research challenges misconceptions about female repression or exclusion within society, dispelling negative stereotypes, particularly the role of women portrayed in international media coverage of the Middle East.”
Original article by Chantelle D’Mello
Continue reading at Doha News:
New majlis exhibit highlights Qatari women’s participation in society
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