The Kalima Reading Club at the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), in cooperation with the General Women’s Union, organised a cultural symposium to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th.

The symposium focused on the book ‘The Philosopher Queens’ published by the Kalima Translation Project. The authors, Dr. Fatema Al Mazrouei, and Asma Al Siddiq, participated in the discussion to analyse the 258-page book focusing on female philosophers who emerged as prominent figures throughout history. The authors spoke about the contributions of these women in enriching philosophical thought over the past two millennia and discussed in detail the content of the book during the symposium.

His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Centre for the Arabic Language, said: “The ALC is keen to highlight the contribution of women in different fields, especially their work in the cultural field and their role in the cultural renaissance of the Arab world. Women’s pivotal role in enriching the Arab culture has been immortalised in history.

He added: “On International Women’s Day, we take pride in the UAE’s achievements in empowering women and enabling their participation in the developmental process. This approach was inspired by the vision and support of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, Mother of the Emirates, which has become a model to be emulated.

He added: “We were very pleased to cooperate with the General Women’s Union in celebrating International Women’s Day this year. The books for the Kalima Translation Project at the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre were selected with utmost care and consideration to spotlight the work of female philosophers. These women have inspired the world and enriched the history of philosophy in the past two thousand years. Their philosophy continues to light the path for humanity in every aspect of life.”

Her Excellency Noura Al Suwaidi, Secretary General of the General Women’s Union, said that culture and creativity in the United Arab Emirates are the two basic pillars of society, enriching life and enhancing our country’s global positioning. They play a key role in making thought and knowledge central to our lives, a goal for individuals and institutions to aspire for.  She noted that culture in the UAE is the essence of the country’s civilization and its developmental journey.  By fostering a culture of knowledge and awareness, the UAE has become one of the most important global cultural centres.

She expressed her happiness in cooperating with the Kalima Reading Club at the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, to organise the symposium, with the participation of an elite group of Emirati women writers.

To mark the International Women's Day, Her Excellency sent a message of thanks and appreciation to women in the UAE and the world for their vital role and effective contribution to building societies and supporting their advancement and progress.

The discussion focused on the achievements of women in the field of philosophy, beginning with the story of Diotima, Ban Zhao, the first woman historian in ancient China, and also covering Hypatia, Hannah Arendt, and the women philosophers of Oxford.

The discussion also showcased research by Angela Davis and Azizah Al-Hibri, whose work focuses on understanding the intersection of contemporary Western concepts such as gender equality with Islamic law.

In addition to the book analysis, the symposium also featured musical interludes, creating a festive atmosphere.

Kalima Translation Project is an ambitious initiative affiliated with Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC). Launched in 2007 by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, Kalima aims to revive the translation movement in the Arab world and support Abu Dhabi’s active cultural role so it can contribute to the regional and global cultural scene and, consequently, lay the foundation for an Arab cultural renaissance that embraces all disciplines of human knowledge. Kalima also organises events and activities related to translation.