Palestinian Women: The Centre of Life
In a rare glimpse into the daily life of Palestinian women, Imane Maarifi, a French nurse of Moroccan descent, shared her volunteer work experience in Gaza with Anadolu Ajansi (AA). According to Maarifi, Palestinian women are placed at the centre of life, and this is evident in the way they are treated with respect and dignity.
Equality and Empowerment
Maarifi described an unexpected sense of equality, noting that she often ate meals prepared by men, with women prioritized in serving, while men were served afterwards, if any food remained. This suggests that women are not only respected but also empowered in their daily lives. She also observed that female workers were provided with a room that included a bathroom, while their male colleagues were assigned to a bare room, further highlighting the prioritization of women’s needs.
Challenges Faced by Women in Gaza
Despite this sense of equality, Maarifi highlighted that women in Gaza struggle to access basic necessities, such as sanitary pads. She noted that mothers consistently prioritize their children in all circumstances, even if it means sacrificing their own needs. For instance, she witnessed mothers who couldn’t bathe every day because they preferred to use the water to bathe their children.
Food Insecurity and Prioritizing Children’s Health
Maarifi also pointed to the "dire" food situation in Gaza, where constant rice consumption has led to severe digestive problems. She noted that when mothers have access to fibre-based foods and dietary aids, they prioritise giving them to their children first. This emphasizes the importance of children’s health and well-being in the daily lives of Palestinian women.
Everyday Celebration of Women’s Rights
Maarifi emphasized that women are celebrated every day in Gaza, with March 8 being a daily occurrence, not just an International Women’s Day. She concluded that perhaps the West could learn from the respect and prioritization of women’s rights in Palestine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Imane Maarifi’s experiences in Gaza provide a unique insight into the daily lives of Palestinian women. Despite the challenges they face, women in Gaza are treated with respect and dignity, and their needs are prioritized. This is a testament to the importance of empowering women and recognizing their central role in society.
FAQs
Q: What is the situation like for women in Gaza?
A: Women in Gaza struggle to access basic necessities, such as sanitary pads, and prioritize their children’s needs over their own.
Q: How do women in Gaza prioritize their children’s health?
A: Mothers in Gaza prioritize giving their children fibre-based foods and dietary aids, even if it means sacrificing their own needs.
Q: How is International Women’s Day celebrated in Gaza?
A: March 8 is celebrated every day in Gaza, with women being truly honoured every single day.