Film discusses role of women in the Islamic faith

The International Wednesdays documentary series presents Me and the Mosque on Wednesday, March 7, at noon in the International Student Centre on the second floor of Laurier Hall.

Using original animation, archival footage and personal interviews, journalist and filmmaker Zarqa Nawaz explores the multiple relationships Canadian Muslim women entertain with Islam’s place of worship, the mosque.

While the religion emphasizes social justice and spiritual equality between the sexes, many mosques force women to pray behind barriers, separate from men, and some do not even permit women to enter the building.

Me and the Mosque examines the space – both physical and social – granted to women in mosques across the country. It was produced by the National Film Board of Canada as part of the Reel Diversity Competition for emerging filmmakers of colour.

International Wednesdays screenings are free and open to the public.