Heba (pseudonym) a woman from Deir Ezzor city. She talks about her attempts to get her right to work and the obstacles she faced. Heba’s story highlights the challenges and obstacles faced by many women as they strive to work and contribute to society facing the traditional beliefs and gender stereotypes.
Heba talks about her story, saying: “I left school when I was in middle school to enter a routine life that is far from any achievement or knowledge. Most of this life activities are visiting some friends or relatives, like any prisoner who gets an outlet every short period. All I could do is counting the days until I become of marriage age to move to another place and responsibilities similar to my current responsibilities, in addition to raising children like any other woman whose tasks are limited to household roles.”
Heba started trying to improve her circumstances by thinking about finding a job. She says about her decision: “I did not feel comfortable with my situation, so I decided to strive for improvement. I wanted to face my routine life. It was necessary to break free from certain habits and traditions that restrict women and make them an aimless being. I started thinking about a new lifestyle, where it includes a sense of importance and productivity as a woman who generates income. This income would help me, and my family improve our living conditions, especially considering our deteriorating financial situation. Additionally, it was necessary to meet new people and make friends with whom I could exchange life experiences.”
Heba tried to convince her family of the idea of working outside the house in a field that does not require an academic degree. Heba says:
“I presented my proposal to my family about working outside the house to provide additional financial support. However, they completely rejected the idea, relying on customs and traditions that limit women’s participation in society. They believed that the man is responsible for the family’s income. So, there was no need for a woman to work outside the home, especially since I do not have an academic degree that would qualify me for work, according to their perspective, as my father replied:
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” Work is for men only, and it is not permissible for women to be with men at the same place. The role of women is to serve their families.” |
Despite her repeated attempts, Heba could not change her family’s mind who rejected the idea of work. Heba’s psychological state was negatively impacted by this as she became fully convinced the necessity to change her reality. Not achieving this would be like the end of her dream for a better future, as she described it.
| Heba’s dream of becoming an active woman in society and fulfilling her desire to pursue a profession continued. She wanted to prove to her family and surroundings that she is capable to contribute to the development of the community and changing the stereotypical view of women being limited to the role of homemakers. She acknowledged the importance of this role but also wanted to highlight the significance of expanding women’s roles. |
Heba says: “I remained hopeful until 2017, as women became more capable to express their voices and allowed them expressing their opinions and demanding their rights. The opportunities for women in the workforce increased, and they became more self-reliant than before. Additionally, the war led to an increase in the cost of living and a scarcity of resources, making life harsher for Syrian communities overall. I felt it was my duty to enter the labor market to support my family. I was motivated even more than before the war. I once again tried to convince my family of the necessity of work, which had become an obligation, especially considering the clear examples of working women in the region which grants me an opportunity to integrate faster.”
Heba assured that her determination to achieve her dream of working paid off despite the rejection and frustration she faced from her family. And she finally managed to work in a beauty center, which not only provides financial income for her family, but also gives her a sense of purpose and achievement.
Heba continues: “Indeed, I asked my parents to allow me to work at a beauty center, just like my cousins, as it is a place primarily staffed by women. To my delight, my father agreed to the idea, which allowed me to finally start pursuing my dream after more than six years of trying.”
Heba’s story is a reminder of the importance of empowering women and the need to challenge traditional roles and gender stereotypes that hinder women’s participation in society. Women have the right to pursue their aspirations, and their contributions to society should be valued and recognized. It is crucial for families and communities to support women’s education and employment opportunities, as this benefits not only individuals but also strengthens communities as a whole. It is essential to continue advocating for women’s rights and empowering them to create a more just and equal society.
