MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – As ‘Aisyiyah approaches its 107th anniversary on May 19, 2024, its Secretary General, Tri Hastuti Nur Rochimah, emphasizes the organization’s unwavering dedication to promoting universal humanitarianism.
Carrying the theme “Strengthening and Expanding Universal Humanitarian Da’wa,” ‘Aisyiyah’s 107th anniversary marks a significant occasion to reaffirm its commitment to spreading the values of universal humanity, as embodied in the Islamic concept of rahmatan lil-‘alamin (blessing for all).
“Universal humanitarian da’wa refers to a form of da’wa that goes beyond religious, national, and state borders. Through this theme, ‘Aisyiyah reminds Indonesian society that progressive women, from an Islamic perspective, are encouraged to fulfill their religious duties by actively spreading the values of universal humanity,” said Tri on Wednesday, May 15.
Tri further elaborated on the shared mission of Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah in advocating for universal humanitarianism. The Al-Maun theology, taught by Ahmad Dahlan, emphasizes the importance of eradicating poverty, ignorance, and backwardness. This theology serves as a guiding principle that Islamic teachings are not merely to be memorized but a way of life to be understood and practiced.
“The fight against poverty, ignorance, and inadequate healthcare, along with addressing backwardness, is extended to all people regardless of their religious affiliation, ethnicity, language, or skin color,” said Tri.
‘Aisyiyah’s work in education, healthcare, humanitarian aid, women and child protection, and supporting marginalized groups embodies its commitment to gender equality. The organization advocates for vulnerable groups such as people with disabilities, women, children, and the elderly, while promoting social inclusion.
Tri also highlighted the 10 commitments outlined in the Progressive Women’s Charter established at the 48th ‘Aisyiyah Congress (Muktamar) in Surakarta. Two of these commitments specifically focus on universal humanitarian activities.
“The Charter emphasizes that women are integral members of the global community, where relationships between people should be based on equality, justice, and respect,” Tri explained. “Therefore, women and women’s movements from diverse backgrounds are crucial in taking on roles that strengthen universal humanitarian values and practices. This includes active participation in implementing peace programs, addressing the needs of refugees, supporting victims of war and violence, advocating for environmental protection, tackling pandemics and endemic diseases, responding to disasters and hunger, and engaging in various other humanitarian activities at the global level.”
To commemorate ‘Aisyiyah’s 107th anniversary, the Central Board of ‘Aisyiyah will hold a commemoration on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah Surakarta.
