With love from dad: Grow up tolerant
dubai — In a letter to his four-yearold daughter Samia, the UAE’s ambassador to the US, Yousef Al Otaiba, said that he hopes she forms part of a generation of inspirational Arab female role models.
“As you grow up and begin your adult life as an Arab Muslim woman, the only thing your mother and I can hope for is that you continue to push for positive change,” the letter — which was published in Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, reads. “You will face many challenges, but you should always stay optimistic. You will hit bumps in the road — they may slow you down briefly, but they won’t stop you.”
“We are doing everything we can to build a better, more secure future for you and others around the region and world,” it continues. “We are building an open, tolerant and progressive society that you will play a major part one day.”
Women played a crucial role in the development of the UAE, Al Otaiba noted. “For the country to develop, it took men and women working side by side to survive the harsh climate and living conditions our ancestors faced,” he said. “That same spirit is evident today.” “Women from our part of the world are helping lead change for the rest of the world,” he added. “Your mother and I can’t wait to see you take your place among them one day.”