Oct 31, 2009

Sexual Harassment In Egypt

     Sexual harassment is one of the major problems worldwide, and especially in Egypt.
Types of sexual harassments include leering, whistling, staring at body parts, displaying pornographic or sexist pictures, invading someone's personal space (like a teacher standing close to a student), asking for sex, rubbing up against someone and telling offensive sexual jokes or stories
The most common forms sexual harassment in Egypt are staring, whistling, invading personal space and telling offensive sexual jokes.
Harassment has become a major problem in Egypt and is increasing everyday.

One of the campaigns that were done for sexual harassment is called Respect Yourself, launched to fight sexual harassment in Cairo streets. A campaign initiated by Egyptian journalist, Ahmed Salah, and the staff of a monthly online magazine, Kelmetna, encouraging Egyptian men to renounce sexual harassment. “Men should treat women the way they would like their sisters to be treated” – this is a statement that it well known in Egypt and that has been said to many Egyptian men in the society. This campaign encouraged youth volunteers to raise awareness of the issue by having face-to-face dialogues on the streets.

Oct 22, 2009

Arabic

This is my fifth year in Egypt. When I entered college they told me that I would not graduate college if I don’t pass Arabic sanawy amma. To me this was the worst news I have ever heard. I started speaking Arabic when I came to Egypt but to read and write it was impossible. I cried a lot and wanted to move back to Canada, but that was impossible. I’m starting Arabic classes and wish for the best.
A month ago I went to Al Khahera University to ask them about my arabic exam. Another shocking news, I only have one chance of taking the exam and that is in march. If I do not pass I will not be able to graduate. Im so scared. Im planning to study really hard in the vacation I hope I pass. Please pray for me.   
My arabic teacher ran away. He does not want to return my phone calls. Im searching for an arabic teacher.