We’re Back

We’re back with this week’s Dissent Dispatch. In our Unbelief Brief we journey to Bangladesh where sectarian rage turned deadly when a mob desecrated the grave of a self-proclaimed Mahdi. In Iran, three years after Mahsa Amini’s killing, life has only grown harsher under clerical rule. And in Austria, a new law reignites debates over hijab bans for children in schools. Plus, we bring you updates from Afghanistan and a look ahead at California Freethought Day, where you can join us for community and inspiration!

Unbelief Brief

Earlier this month in Bangladesh, a mob of hundreds motivated by religious zeal exhumed the body of a deceased cleric and burned it in the street. Nurul Haque, who styled himself a spiritual leader, claimed to be the Imam Mahdi, an important end-times figure for Twelver Shia Muslims. This had driven sectarian anger throughout his life, but Sunni “hardliners” were also reportedly incensed about the shrine in which he was buried: they believed it resembled the Kaaba in Mecca. In the riotous exhumation and desecration of his corpse, dozens were injured and at least one man killed. The display was so absurd and sickening that even the militant Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami party, previously banned in Bangladesh, issued a statement distancing themselves from it. The entire story lays bare how ridiculous and pointless sectarian conflict is: that someone had to die and a grave be desecrated over one deceased man’s delusions.

Meanwhile, Iran International reports on the state of Iran three years after the murder of Mahsa Amini in police custody. The bottom line: almost everything has gotten worse. Despite widespread public disapproval, Iran’s mullahs have clung to power. And although women (especially in affluent areas) are moving about without hijab more often, the country has become more impoverished, more violent, hungrier, and thirstier in the wake of economic tumult. Against this backdrop, some moral crusaders in power have determined that the country’s real problem still lies with “immoral” women: one such woman was caught on video without a hijab as some boys danced with her at an amusement park in Shiraz, and it has evoked a fierce condemnation from authorities. It is difficult to envision an optimistic near future for the Iranian people.

Finally: Austria’s government is set to ban head coverings in schools for children under the age of 14. The new law is set to take effect “in autumn.” While it is the choice of all women to wear whatever they please, including hijab, it is also the case that many young girls born to Muslim parents are forced into the practice of covering before they can make a conscious choice. The wisdom of a ban on head coverings for minors, limited to educational settings, can be debated. But it is also worth remembering that a young girl wearing a hijab is typically given no choice in the matter by her family, either. It is a cultural tool of repression, and most women, if not forced to wear one growing up, would not make the choice to start wearing one as a teenager or adult.

P.S.: Radio Free Europe has a piece about Afghan children who have been going to school in Pakistan, fearing what may happen if they are soon forced to return to Afghanistan to be schooled by the Taliban. You can read that here.

On the Horizon

Celebrate California Freethought Day!

Join us at the California State Capitol on Sunday, October 12 (11:00 AM – 5:30 PM) for a day of community, ideas, and inspiration. This FREE event features an incredible lineup of speakers and guests, including ex-Muslim cartoonist Haram Doodles and our very own Aysha Khan!

Pre-register here to receive a free full-color program and be eligible for over $300 in prizes. Become a sponsor to join us at the Supporters’ Reception on Saturday, October 11, where you can mingle with speakers over haram treats like wine, beer, and live entertainment 😈.

Campaign Update: whyNOTIslam Billboard Launch

Our whyNOTIslam billboard campaign continues to spark interest and critical thought. Since launch, the site has seen over 6,000 sessions - a clear sign that people are curious and engaging with the questions we’re raising. The most-visited section so far is “Women in Islam”, followed closely by “Scientific Insights.” These numbers show us exactly where conversations are most needed - and we’re just getting started.

This is also your last call to see the billboards in person! They come down September 21. They are located in in northern and central New Jersey

Help us decide where to go next. Where should we take our billboards after New Jersey?Share your ideas and keep this conversation moving.

Until next week,

The Team at Ex-Muslims of North America

P.S. We’d love to hear from you! Share your feedback at [email protected].

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