JEDDAH, 21 February 2008 — In an effort to help divorced women get back some self-esteem and overcome the social stigma that they are “damaged goods,” Al-Shaqaiq Charity Society is starting on Monday an eight-day seminar. The no-fee event is titled “Distinctive after Divorce.”
The program is the brainchild of Nahla Al-Mutairi, head of the consultation department at Al-Shaqaiq. “A lot of the problems we have encountered are related to divorce,” said Al-Mutairi.
The divorce rate in the Makkah Region — which includes the Jeddah metro area — is 62 percent, according to the Social Development Committee in the region.
“A lot of divorcees have gone through hardships, including mental and physical problems that have handicapped their social interactions,” said Fatima Khayyat, executive director of the charity. “There is no supporting programs specialized in divorce problems.”
The program will start with counseling 50 divorced women under the age of 40. Later the target will be to help 1,000 women.
“Divorced women under 40 are usually more vulnerable to the adverse consequences of divorce due to their and their children’s young age,” said Al-Mutairi.
As divorcees do not have a space to express themselves, many of them welcomed this idea that tackles the issue from different angles and is affordable to everyone.
“This is the first time I have heard of such a seminar specifically for divorced women and that is free of charge,” said Hanadi Mohamed, a 25-year-old divorcee. “It is a good to hear some tips and advice on how to move on and be stronger. However, I believe that such lectures should be given to men as well. Why does society always picture women as if they are the victim and responsible for all the problems all the time?”
Sherine Ismail said that society must be aware of the situation of divorcees. “It should accept them as normal people who failed in their personal lives, but can depend on themselves and deserve to have a second chance,” she said.
