In a session titled “Women and Writing” at the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, prof. Rana Dajani, was joined by Algerian novelist Fayrouz Risham, Moroccan writer and critic Rashida Benmassoud, and Moroccan novelist Rabi’a Rayhan. The session addressed the presence of female voices in Arabic literature, with participants emphasizing the importance of writing as a powerful tool that allows women to express their issues, challenges, and to embody their identity and aspirations. They also highlighted the role of feminist writing as an important means of discussing major social, cultural, and political issues.
Dajani pointed out that writing represents a historical responsibility towards future generations, emphasizing the role of women in promoting national identity through writing in their own language. She spoke about the significance of writing for children in their mother tongue, considering it a means to enhance the love of reading and develop national awareness. She also highlighted the stories of Palestinian female writers who lost their lives due to the war in Gaza, carrying with them many stories and novels. She urged every woman to use writing as a tool for cultural contribution and to confront forms of cultural invasion.
Prof. Rana concluded her speech by stating that, although she does not consider herself a traditional writer, she insisted on documenting her own story in her book “Five Scarves, Doing the Impossible” to inspire women and youth to share their own stories, as every story carries value and a message for future generations that deserves to be told.
The fair hosts a selection of prominent writers, intellectuals, artists, and over 2,520 publishers and exhibitors from 112 countries, celebrating global cultural diversity.