On December 9th  Motief vzw, Cimic I Expertisecentrum van Lessius, Merhaba vzw, Ella vzw and Mana vzw organised the lecture "Religion: an obstacle or catalyst for emancipation" in the Atlas Conference Hall in Antwerp. 

To some, feminism and religion seems to be incompatible, others point out that the combination can be strengthening and empowering. What role can religion play in the emancipation process of women? Is religion an inhibiting factor or a catalyst in this process? Is it necessary that women step away from their religion in order to be 'free' or not? 

In the first part Amina Wadud explains what role the Qur'an can play in the emancipation process of muslim women.