STUDIO II: We Are Muslim Too

With about 1.9 billion people, Islam is the second-largest practiced faith in the world. Amongst its 73 internal sects, one emerged called Ahmadiyya who have faced more discrimination and abuse in Muslim countries, such as Pakistan, Malaysia, and Algeria, than any other practiced faith in those countries. Ahmadi Muslims are systematically oppressed and labelled as non-Muslims in Pakistan, stripping them of their identity and isolating them from their religious freedoms, due to religious differences.

The Ahmadi Muslims continue to experience mistreatment in Pakistan and other Muslim countries to this day. They are forbidden from any public act of worship and are often subject to violence, targeted killing, harassment, demolition of Mosques, and discrimination. Killing an Ahmadi in Pakistan is legal if they declare themselves as Muslims.

This collection, titled “We are Muslim Too”, returns the Muslim identity to Ahmadis, showcasing Ahmadi mosques that were burned down by the government of Pakistan, and block printing made from blocks that were carved by Ahmadis, all on contemporary Pakistani silhouettes to show that the issue is relevant to this day. Pearls are featured throughout the garments as they symbolize faith and protection. Paisleys are a common and traditional motif used in Pakistan that represent life. Tulips and other florals are used in block printing and digitally printed patterns to mirror the flowers that grow in Pakistan and represent growth and beauty. Ultimately, this collection merges the Ahmadi and Pakistani identities to show the coexistence of the two, highlighting the Ahmadi Muslim struggle for peace and acceptance.

After all, Islam means "Peace", and the Ahmadiyya slogan is "Love for All, Hatred for None".