At HICC, our primary objective is to instill Taqwa (God Consciousness) for the spiritual development of the local muslims, men and women. Therefore, besides running programs for brothers, we have a dedicated sisters’ wing to serve the needs of women in the local community. We believe it is quite essential as Qur’an has set the spiritual and moral equality of men and women in explicit and unequivocal terms:
“ Allah has prepared forgiveness and great rewards for the Muslim men and women; for the believing men and women; for the devout men and women; for the truthful men and women; for the men and women who are patient and constant; the men and women who humble themselves; for the men and women who give charity; for the men and women who fast, for the men and women who guard their chastity; and the men and women who are exceedingly mindful of Allah” ( 33:35).
As clear from the ayah, both men and women have equal obligations to develop themselves morally and spiritually, and to fulfill their social responsibility.
Moreover, the masjid, in its essence, is rather a local community centre for discussing issues of public concern and to respond to challenges facing the community than a mere place to pray. This aspect is emphasized in Qur’an when it relates equal responsibility of both men and women for developing public good: “ The believing men and women are protectors and helpers of each other. They (collaborate) to promote all that is good and oppose all that is evil; establish prayers and give charity, and obey Allah and his Messenger. Those are the people whom Allah would grant mercy. Indeed Allah is Exalted and Wise”. (Al-Tawbah 9:71)
However, while we see that there are generally ample opportunities for brothers at Masaajids or Islamic Centres for their spiritual, physical and social needs, unfortunately it is not the case for the sisters in general. Realizing this need, HICC has a very well organized sisters’ wing that conducts regular programs and activities to cater for the needs of the sisters in the local community. We believe that women in their own domain play a vital and equally important role alongside men in building the community, reforming practices and providing services.
Some of the activities conducted for sisters at HICC are:
- Organise regular lectures and study circle sessions
- Run efficient Outreach programs and activities to engage with wider community in the surrounding
- Organize women only get-together sessions such as Coffee Mornings etc, to cater for their social needs.