JEDDAH: There has been widespread outrage at the man who set up a training course entitled “Are women human?”
Fahad Al-Ahmadi, who runs an organization called the Saudi Academy for Training and Consulting, posted the name of the course on Facebook, resulting in almost immediate condemnation from men and women.
Despite Al-Ahmadi’s attempts to explain himself on a satellite television program, he faced a barrage of criticism on social media, with users using the hashtag #AreWomenHuman to share their views.
“If you ask a woman that question publicly, she will likely turn into a monster and teach you a lesson with her answer,” wrote comedian Rawaa in response to Al-Ahmadi’s question. “But if you ask yourself this in secret, it is likely that you are the monster.”
Abdulqader Al-Shahrani said “women are the greatest humans because in childhood they open the doors to heaven for their parents, in their youth complete half the religion with their husbands, and in motherhood paradise is under their feet.”
Other users took to their accounts to defend what they described as the beauty, poise, loyalty and other qualities of women, with some even quoting the Prophet, peace be upon him, about the importance and value of women.
Abdulkarim Al-Harbi tweeted, “a mother gets you to Paradise, a daughter keeps you from the fire, a wife completes half your religion, and people still ask if women are human?”
Ghadiaa Al-Sindi, director of media and public relations at the Handcrafts Association, said women’s achievements speak for themselves, particularly their products, professionalism and creativity.
“I am surprised at the criticism of women … We forget that women make up half of society, and are greatly supported by the state to ensure they are appointed in top positions. This is evidence of their confidence, strength, planning and ideas.”
TV presenter Fadwa Al-Tayar said the phrase was wrong to use, even if it was to attract attention by being provocative.
Psychologist Mohammed Azeb said women should be treated with respect and that the country would not condone any attempt to diminish them. These types of titles were disturbing for men and women, he said.
Lawyer Asher Al-Sarraj said that those who abuse others can be imprisoned for one year and fined SR500,000.