'Equal partners'
Mosul University honors Iraqi Women’s Day with evocative theatrical tribute
MOSUL — Mosul University on Monday hosted an official ceremony for Iraqi Women’s Day, observed annually on March 3, featuring a theatrical performance that highlighted the historical struggles, societal challenges, and resilience of women.
The performance, titled “She Will No Longer Be Buried,” traced the journey of women confronting violence from ancient times to the present and underscored their vital role in leadership and societal progress.
Hiyam Al-Tai, dean of the College of Science at Mosul University, told 964media, “The spirit has returned to Mosul through the combined efforts of women and men, and Mosul women have played a role in stability despite experiencing loss and hardship.”
Al-Tai added, “Mosul women endured the difficult past period, which was a challenge for them. Today, we see them as university professors, teachers, doctors, distinguished activists, and even homemakers who did not surrender to circumstances but started their own projects and made a name for themselves in various commercial and economic fields.”
Yasmin Abdulkarim, dean of the College of Archaeology, explained that the event aimed to highlight women’s historical contributions as queens, priestesses, and scholars. “We reject the notion of ‘women’s empowerment’ as if women are weak. They are equal partners with men in building families and society,” she said.
Abdulkarim noted that Mosul University has a strong focus on women’s leadership, boasting the highest number of female deans among Iraqi universities, with seven women serving as deans on the university council.
The event’s director, Munqidh Al-Bajdali, said the performance was inspired by the pre-Islamic practice of female infanticide, symbolizing the historical suppression of women. “We emphasized that women have refused to surrender and have proven their capabilities in leadership and various professions,” he said.
