Hshouma

This graphic novel boldly addresses sexuality and gender identity in Morocco, offering a fresh perspective on women's rights and societal norms through Hshouma.

In Hshouma, Zainab Fasiki presents a powerful feminist graphic novel that draws from her personal experiences navigating sexuality in Morocco. The narrative begins with the cultural constraints surrounding discussions of sexuality and the body in her homeland, where topics deemed 'hshouma' or shameful are often silenced. Fasiki invites readers to explore the various dimensions of this shame through educational, religious, and political lenses, shedding light on the struggles faced by women in a society steeped in patriarchal norms.

The characters depicted in Hshouma are both compelling and relatable, showcasing a diversity of experiences and expressions. From women in traditional veils to those embracing their bodies in more liberated forms, each illustration celebrates the human form and its inherent beauty. Fasiki’s art serves as a critique of the hypocritical masculinity that often fears the female body, challenging deeply rooted societal beliefs about gender identity and sexual expression. This graphic novel stands as a testament to the resilience of women and their right to own their narratives.

Ultimately, Hshouma is not just an artistic endeavor; it is an educational initiative that aims to dismantle the taboos surrounding sex education and everyday misogyny. With humor and playfulness, Fasiki emerges as a vital new voice in international feminism, advocating for a shift in how women and their bodies are perceived within Moroccan society and beyond.