Iranian Women and Sports

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Islam is the main religion of Iran and much of the Middle East. The Islamic religion has many beliefs just like most other religions. Many of these rules affect women in particular. In the Islamic religion, a major tenet is that a woman’s body, a symbol of sexuality, should be covered (Pfister 12). This rule, along with some other beliefs, makes it particularly hard for Islamic women to participate in sports or athletics. There are many countries, other than Iran, that are experiencing the same dilemma of girls wanting to play a sport, but it is looked down upon by the community. Even in America until Title IX was created, girl’s sports were often thought of as less significant than men’s sports. The sports teams in the West were often underfunded, and unequal (Kristof and WuDonn). While there is no prohibition of women’s sports, and health and fitness are actually emphasized in Iran, women seldom choose to participate in sports (Pfister 12).
Whenever sports are being practiced or played, Islamic laws must be followed. This includes the fact that men and women must practice separately and that women’s bodies must be covered (Pfister 12). They must practice separately because Muslims believe that sex should be saved until marriage. In order to make sure no one breaks this tenet, they like to get rid of any temptation or chance. Men can practice anywhere; however, women can practice in one of two places: private facilities separate from men, or publically where they must wear appropriate clothing and behave accordingly. The problem with this is that the private facilities are not easily found, and even if you can find one they are usually in richer areas because that is who is able to afford them (Pfister 14). As one ...

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...unate that this statement is true. While it is great that Iran is the, “leading Muslim nation for women’s sport”, women’s participation is sports still has a long way to go. The other Muslim nations must be in even worse conditions related to involvement of women in sports. Iranian women, and women around the world, need sports in their lives. Sports are an essential part of staying fit and also of gaining life skills such as confidence and leadership. Sports in addition to education will help to end women’s suffering. Solutions, such as education and athletics, help to empower women. They also give women knowledge that can help them to lead a better life and eventually provide a better future for the country. Anyone regardless of gender, race, religion, etc. should be allowed to participate in sports. Women especially should not be discriminated against.

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