After experiencing injustice when hiking in the English countryside, Amira Patel decided she wanted to help create a safe space for Muslim women outdoors. She founded her own group, the Wanderlust Women, which is now an outdoor community of over 1000 Muslim women.
During lockdown, Amira found a love of wild swimming: it was a place of stillness, in which she could connect to God, yet she always swam on her own, until now. For the first time ever, Amira is joined by two other women to swim together in the beauty of the Lake District.
Summaya and Sham are apprehensive upon arrival; it is a big thing for them to be stepping out the box of what is deemed to be normal for Muslim women. After the initial shock wears off, they experience the transformative effect of cold-water immersion. They form a powerful sisterhood, finding strength in one another's bravery in helping to break down the stereotypes and boundaries that exist.
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Comments
Brilliant. I wonder what the dislikers dislike...
I thought it was very interesting film. The only thing that jarred a bit with me, (I'm not one of the dislikers BTW), was the waving of the Palestinian flag on the summit. A bit too overtly political for my tastes, and I don't think it helps inclusivity (and I'd think the same about any political symbolism).
Lovely film. The flag didn't bother me at all; I found it kind of poignant when you consider how many British flags have been raised in the past on hills and beaches in our colonial history. It's not like the group was staking a claim to anything; I understood it as a simple sign of unity and pride.
Amira, what a beautiful film. I felt your pain over appearing as an outsider in the outdoors. We need more films like this to inspire others, and educate those of us who need reminding about inclusivity. The outdoors should be for everyone.
Thank you.
At a guess? Broadening their horizons…