Tell GW University Not to End All-Female Swim Hour for Muslim Women

Tell GW University Not to End All-Female Swim Hour for Muslim Women

The Issue

In March, The George Washington University instituted an female-only swim hour so that Muslim women could swim without violating Islamic rules about modesty. The swim hour allows women who could not swim to enjoy the university's fascilities and exercise.

However, news of the program is making waves online, where many fear "creeping sharia" (the idea that Muslim culture is taking over American life). Obviously, this is a gesture of support to minority members of the university community, something we have done for centuries to accomodate many religions.

As the university reviews its policy, let them know that the all-female swim hour is an important step towards making higher education and our society overall a welcoming and unoppressive place for Muslim women and all minorities.

Photo: Foxtongue

 

avatar of the starter
P LPetition StarterPema is a journalist living in Washington, DC. She covers women in politics, reproductive rights and policy, and pop culture here at <a href="http://Change.org" rel="nofollow">Change.org</a>. Other interests include constitutional law, religion, and political history. She works at The American Prospect magazine.
Media inquiries
This petition had 478 supporters

The Issue

In March, The George Washington University instituted an female-only swim hour so that Muslim women could swim without violating Islamic rules about modesty. The swim hour allows women who could not swim to enjoy the university's fascilities and exercise.

However, news of the program is making waves online, where many fear "creeping sharia" (the idea that Muslim culture is taking over American life). Obviously, this is a gesture of support to minority members of the university community, something we have done for centuries to accomodate many religions.

As the university reviews its policy, let them know that the all-female swim hour is an important step towards making higher education and our society overall a welcoming and unoppressive place for Muslim women and all minorities.

Photo: Foxtongue

 

avatar of the starter
P LPetition StarterPema is a journalist living in Washington, DC. She covers women in politics, reproductive rights and policy, and pop culture here at <a href="http://Change.org" rel="nofollow">Change.org</a>. Other interests include constitutional law, religion, and political history. She works at The American Prospect magazine.
Media inquiries

The Decision Makers

Jack Kvancz
Jack Kvancz
Director of Athletics
Jason Wilson
Jason Wilson
Associate Athletic Director/Facilities
Aubre Jones
Aubre Jones
Director of Recreational Sports
Office of Dean of Students
Office of Dean of Students
Dean of Students

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Petition created on November 14, 2010