Saudi Women STILL Cannot Drive

One of the largest violations of Arabian women's rights is that they may not drive any motorized vehicles.

The women of Saudi Arabia have been suppressed in many ways. They may not leave the house without permission from their male guardian, can not play sports, they must wear head dresses, and

until 2012 they could not vote or run for any political position.

Women’s rights have come so far over the centuries of our time. Employment, sports, voting, marriage, and many more privileges have been won for women around the world.

They must rely on taxis, buses, trains, or any male to drive them where they want to go. This inconveniences these women, as they cannot simply go to the store. They must walk, or pay for a ride.

However, these women continue to push the boundaries. They want their freedom and justice. They will hold rallies, and even drive although it is illegal.

“Yesterday there were lots of police cars so I didn’t take the risk. I only took the wheel for a few minutes. Today I drove and nobody stopped me. For sure I will drive every day doing my normal tasks.” Says Azza al-Shamasi. Azza had filmed herself driving to the hospital.

Although there are many more major issues for these women, driving is a small problem that is very angering.

“We will continue driving and posting videos,” said activist Aziza Youseff, “the whole thing is raising awareness and making people get used to us driving as normal.”

Saudi women are aiming to claim this right, and they will continue pressing the government until their rights are acknowledged.

Read more on the Saudi Driving issue at http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/saudi-women-defy-authorities-over-driving-ban-1.2252709