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Sahara Shelter
Interpretation of Sharia (Islamic) law is informed by country and culture. This leads to misinterpretation or an interpretation inspired by a personal or political agenda.
In Sudan, Mariam Yehya Ibrahim has ben sentenced to death for converting to Christianity which is ‘against’ Sharia Law.
In Nigeria women are being forbidden from getting a western education as that is seen to be haram (unacceptable).
The hands covering the girls face in the ad symbolize three things. Firstly, the hijab/pardah and the way it is violently imposed on women. The women have no choice in this matter and are forced to abide by Islamic law the hands represent the violence that they will experience if they choose not to adhere to this law. Secondly, the hands illustrate the restriction of freedom of thought and speech. Thirdly the hands are symbolic of male domination of women in these countries.
Credits
Agency: Ogilvy & Mather Durban
Agency Art Director: Taskeen Limalia
Agency Producer: Kagiso Africa, Homaira Khan
Creative Director: Cameron K. Krieger
Creative Director: Stephen Craig
Writer: Jonathan Peters-Newman
Photographer: Tony Purnell