We Have Always Been Here: A Queer Muslim Memoir

by Samra Habib

Azaad is a funny word in Urdu. In most instances, it means “freedom.” Freedom from your captors, war, and oppressive regimes. But when used to describe a woman, it is meant to imply that she is too wild to be tamed by those who have the right to tame her: her parents and all the men in her life whose honour it is her duty to prioritize before her desires. It’s also used liberally to slut-shame and put down a woman who shows any sign of autonomy or independence. One day I would wear the title of azaad like a badge of honour.