“Women will get property rights” Zahida and Shazia hope to be true

In the sweltering heat of a summer afternoon, a white car navigated its way through the narrow and winding streets of Manghopir, an impoverished area in Karachi. These dilapidated roads led the vehicle to a destitute house, a grim reflection of the prevalent poverty in the community. Inside, a group of burdened women had gathered for a program aiming to raise awareness about women’s rights to property, a scarce notion not only in this specific locality but throughout Pakistan.

The weariness and despair were evident on the faces of these women as they arrived for the program. However, a glimmer of hope still flickered in their hearts, as they yearned for a brighter future and believed that happiness would someday embrace their lives, alleviating their sorrows. In the midst of this mix of emotions, Advocate Zahida Parveen Memon and Shazia Usman emerged from the car and entered the house, carrying with them informational booklets, standees, and banners. The arrival of Zahida and Shazia sparked anticipation and briefly brought smiles to the faces of the women present, even for those leading modest lives.

“After displaying the banner on the mud wall of the house, arranging the standees, and seating the women in a particular order, the awareness session commenced. . . .”

Zahida and Shazia are associated with the renowned organization called the Legal Aid Society (LAS), which offers free legal advice and support. One of LAS’s projects, known as Women’s Rights to Legal Property, focuses on empowering women by educating them about their property rights. This initiative operates in various cities across the Sindh region, including Larkana, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Karachi. Thousands of women have already benefited from this project, gaining comprehensive knowledge about their rights. LAS also provides support to women involved in property-related legal cases, offering assistance throughout the entire process. Community mobilization and awareness sessions are integral components of the project, aiding in spreading knowledge and increasing understanding. Trained paralegals and field staff from LAS work tirelessly towards achieving the project’s goals.

Advocate Parveen emphasized the significant issue of denying property rights to women in Pakistan. Already burdened by life’s hardships, disadvantaged women face further cruelty when deprived of their rightful inheritance. This injustice deeply affects compassionate individuals, evoking tears and pain. The awareness programs provide solace by instilling confidence in women and ultimately alleviating their struggles.

Field Officer Shazia shared her thoughts, revealing that she initially aspired to become a teacher. However, her involvement with the LAS project made her realize that it was her true calling. She recognized the importance of hard work, passion, and dedication, which ultimately paid off. Shazia believed that by mobilizing communities, women could be empowered and inspired to overcome challenges. To accomplish this, it was crucial for advocates and representatives working for women to remain resolute. Despite the harsh working conditions, Shazia never felt nervous or fatigued. Providing awareness to women filled her heart with happiness and a profound sense of peace and satisfaction, evident in the radiant smile on Shazia Usman’s face.