Women's Islamic Initiative in Spirituality and Equality
| Abbreviation | WISE |
|---|---|
| Formation | 2006 |
| Founder | Daisy Khan |
| Type | Non-governmental organization |
| Purpose | "To build a cohesive, global movement of Muslim women that will reclaim women’s rights in Islam, enabling them to make dignified choices and fully participate in creating just and flourishing societies." |
| Services | advocacy for women, consultation services, education |
| Website | http://www.wisemuslimwomen.org |
Women's Islamic Initiative in Spirituality and Equality (WISE or WISE Muslim Women) is a global organization dedicated to promoting women's rights, and social justice which is led by Muslim women. WISE takes the stance that patriarchal culture, not Islam, takes away women's rights and helps Muslims feel that they do not have to choose between their religion and their rights. The organization is able to provide Muslims around the world with a place and platform to discuss interpretations of the Quran, confront harmful traditions and prejudice and also to raise awareness of women in Islam. As an international movement, it has been considered by scholar and social scientist, Julie Pruzan-Jørgensen, to "hold important potentials for strengthening Arab women's authority and for pushing for reform of patriarchal practices." WISE is sponsored by the New York-based American Society for Muslim Advancement (ASMA).