“The film, the first of its kind…is not to be missed by any who wish to enter the world of contemporary Islam with its lively gender dynamics being refashioned under our very eyes.” — Margot Badran, Feminism In Islam: Secular and Religious Convergences

Women across the Arab world are redefining their role as leaders in Islam. Veiled Voices investigates the world of Muslim women religious leaders through the eyes of three women in Lebanon, Syria and Egypt. Filmed over the course of two years, Veiled Voices reveals a world rarely documented, exploring both the public and private worlds of these women. The stories featured in the film give insight into how Muslim women are now increasingly willing to challenge the status quo from within their religion, promoting Islam as a powerful force for positive transformation in the world. Each triumphs over difficult challenges as they carve out a space to lead—both in Islam and in their communities.

Producer and Director Brigid Maher is a filmmaker, multimedia designer and an assistant professor in the Film and Media Arts Division at American University in Washington, DC. Her work focuses on issues of cultural identity and discrimination. She has directed film and theater productions all around the world and recently completed the short film AWOL, which was filmed on location in Lebanon and is now touring the festival circuit. Maher wrote, directed and produced the feature film Adrift In the Heartland, which was filmed in the West Bank and in Chicago. Maher’s films have been screened at international film festivals both in the USA and abroad.

Directed by Brigid Maher | 2009 | USA-Egypt-Lebanon-Syria | 59 minutes

Institutional DVD purchase: $300

Institutional DVD rental: $200

Purchase a copy here or write to institutions@typecastfilms.com to arrange a screening or for more information.

Study guides for universities and high schools available at www.veiledvoices.com. Viewing guides for screenings and discussion are also available.