I think many of us are aware of the problem but feel helpless to know what to do to help. Their culture is so far removed from anything we find familiar, they might as well be from another planet. And the more we hear and see of what looks like systemic subjugation, the more it frightens us.

That’s no excuse, but I remember when feminists thought they were helping by going after muslim dress, hijabs, etc., as repressive clothing that needed to go in order to begin the freedom movement. Many of the women wearing the clothing protested, claiming this is their comfort and their right and we should back off. As I said, confusing.

But when ti comes to actual violence toward Middle Eastern women, which is all too real, we can’t even begin to know what would help and what would put those women in even more danger. We need to talk about it, and I thank you for adding to the conversation.