Article
Background
Maryam Abdelalim observed how Islamophobia has been rising in the political atmosphere of the Netherlands and particularly how hijabi’s were being unjustly censorsed and stereotyped. In response, she created a safe space for women to share their own stories. Her Action Project culminated in the event Who Is The Muslim Woman?, held at Pakhuis de Zwijger as part of the Diaspora Dialogues Series.
Drawing from her own lived experience as a Muslim, Maryam focused on exploring the beauty, complexity, and wisdom embedded in Muslim identity, particularly the identity of Muslim women.
“Being interested in listening and adding to the conversation is one of the greatest contributions when it comes to social revolution.”
“She [the Muslim woman] has been ridiculed, victimized and villanised. I felt that it was time for more spaces to hear from the horse’s mouth.”
Approach and Methodology
The first event welcomed participants and visitors into a space of reflection, validation, and shared struggle. By facilitating dialogue on topics like representation, media narratives, and spiritual resilience, the project helped build community among Muslim women and broader audiences. It also contributed to reshaping how Muslim identity, particularly that of women, is viewed and discussed in public forums.
Impact
Following the success of the first gathering, Maryam is looking to collaborating more often with Pakhuis de Zwijger. This time under the newly founded organisation; Mien Il Helwa Di. Run by her and Amber Arif. As their first project they are hosting a series of gatherings in The Hague that facilitate dialogue and invite creative exercises related to topics such as; feminism in Islamic context, codeswitching, racism, community formation, Islamic art and inclusion. Those interested in contributing to or supporting the project can reach out to them through their email: mienilhelwadi@gmail.com or instagram: mien il helwa di.