Western Feminism? Or Cultural Imperialism?
The first time I heard western feminism accused of being a form of cultural imperialism when applied to the Middle East I was absolutely shocked! How could the spread of freedom be considered imperialism? I reacted angrily, I felt that western countries were selflessly trying to help other nations and in turn received a slap in the face! However, after exploring the subject further I discovered that perhaps this idea was not in fact quite so ludicrous…
The ways in which western cultures view the Middle East is at the root of the problem. Many western feminists, particularly Americans, see themselves as the founders of the ideology. They believe as liberated women they must inform and save their Middle Eastern sisters, this has become known as the idea of the “big sister”, and is perceived as demeaning by some Middle Eastern women. While it is true that many women in the Middle East are oppressed, they are not all the veiled and meek women westerners believe them to be. In actuality, feminism appeared in the Middle East over a hundred years ago and there are two predominant strands, secular and Islamic feminism. Furthermore, Pakistan has had a female prime minister, while the U.S. has yet to have a female president! Perhaps feminism is not exclusive to western cultures…
It is undeniable that western culture differs greatly from Middle Eastern cultures in many aspects, it is thus reasonable to assume that different forms of feminism are uniquely appropriate to each culture. Western culture is very individualistic, whereas Middle Eastern cultures are not. Many Middle Eastern women have claimed western feminism advocates a divided society, encouraging women to reject the traditional family role, which they view very negatively.
In addition, without having much of an understanding for the culture, westerners are quick to condemn certain Middle Eastern practices. For instance, many western feminists view the veil worn by Middle Eastern women as oppressive, however many Middle Eastern women actually choose to wear the veil because it allows them to live and work seriously, avoiding sexual tensions and advances. In addition, with the globalization of western culture, it helps them feel more connected to their indigenous identity. Despite the fact that 50% of our marriages end in divorce, westerners harshly criticize arranged marriages, but some Middle Eastern women argue that this ensures the marriage will be based upon shared family and cultural values as opposed to infatuation or sexual attraction. Middle Eastern women have
Islamic feminism claims that Islam itself is not oppressive to women, rather it has been interpreted incorrectly by males. It calls for an accurate reinterpretation of the Koran, allowing Middle Eastern women to seek more rights without sacrificing their culture, religion, or identity.
While I still do not believe that exposing Middle Easter women to western feminism is a form of cultural imperialism, I think that forcing it upon them would be. It is important that Middle Eastern women define and seek feminism for themselves, using whatever avenues they desire. What we, as westerners can do, is ensure that patriarchal governments and laws do not hold them down. The choices are theirs to make, all we can do is try to help them gain the ability to choose.
