"I confront the European elite's self-image as tolerant 'while under their noses women are living like slaves"
- Ayaan Hirsi Ali
About this Quote
In this quote, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, a Somali-born Dutch-American activist, is challenging the frequently held belief that the European elite are tolerant and progressive. She explains that while they may pride themselves on their receptivity, they are turning a blind eye to the mistreatment of ladies within their own societies. By utilizing the phrase "under their noses," Ali suggests that this issue is happening right in front of them, yet they are selecting to neglect it. She also compares the treatment of ladies to that of servants, highlighting the intensity and injustice of the scenario. Overall, Ali is calling out the hypocrisy of the European elite and prompting them to do something about it versus the injustice of ladies.
"The whole commerce between master and slave is a perpetual exercise of the most boisterous passions, the most unremitting despotism on the one part, and degrading submissions on the other. Our children see this, and learn to imitate it"