Born: 1882 (Isfahan, Iran)
Died: 1961 (Tehran, Iran)
Biography:
Sediqeh Dowlatabadi (Persian: صدیقه دولتآبادی listen (help·info); 1882 in Isfahan – July 30, 1961 in Tehran) was an Iranian feminist activist and journalist and one of the pioneering figures in the Persian women’s movement. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to fighting for women’s rights and promoting education and empowerment for women in Iran.
Born in 1882 in Isfahan, Dowlatabadi was the daughter of Hadi Dolatabadi and Khatameh Begum. Her father, a progressive religious jurist, recognized the importance of education and allowed Dowlatabadi to receive an education in Persian and Arabic in Tehran. She later continued her secondary education at Dar-ol-Fonoun Academy.
At the age of 15, Dowlatabadi married Etezad al-Hakma, but the marriage ended in divorce due to her infertility. Despite this setback, Dowlatabadi remained determined to make a difference in the lives of women in her country.
Dowlatabadi firmly believed that education was the key to women’s progress. In 1917, she established one of the first girls’ primary schools called Umm Al-Madaris (Mother of Schools). However, the school faced opposition from religious conservatives, resulting in its closure. Dowlatabadi was even beaten and detained for three months as a consequence of her efforts.
Recognizing the need for women to have access to information and literature that addressed their issues and concerns, Dowlatabadi established the first women’s gazette in Isfahan called Zaban-e Zanan in 1919. This publication, which ran for 57 issues until 1921, took a progressive stance and tackled important topics related to women’s rights.
In addition to her work in education and journalism, Dowlatabadi also played a significant role in organizing women’s associations. She founded the Women’s Association of Isfahan, providing a platform for women to express their opinions and advocate for their rights.
Dowlatabadi’s activism extended beyond Iran’s borders. In 1932, she served as the secretary of the Second Eastern Women’s Congress held in Tehran, where she collaborated with other like-minded women to further the cause of women’s rights.
One of the notable issues Dowlatabadi campaigned for was the unveiling of women. During a period when the government considered introducing a policy of compulsory unveiling, she spoke out in favor of this reform, believing it would promote women’s participation in society and modernize Iran. However, her outspoken stance on this issue made her a target, and she received threats against her life.
Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Dowlatabadi’s dedication and perseverance left a lasting impact on the Iranian women’s movement. Her efforts to promote education, establish women’s organizations, and fight for women’s rights laid the foundation for future generations of activists.
Sediqeh Dowlatabadi passed away on July 30, 1961, in Tehran, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and determination in the face of adversity.
Awards:
– Unfortunately, there is no documented information available regarding any official awards or recognitions received by Sediqeh Dowlatabadi.