Mariam Ibraheem was born in a refugee camp in Sudan. Her Muslim father died when she was six, and her mother raised her in the Christian faith. After a traumatic childhood, Mariam became a successful businessperson, married the man she loved, and had a beautiful baby boy.
But one day in 2013, her world was shattered when Sudan authorities insisted she was Muslim because of her father's background. She had broken the law by marrying a Christian man, and she must abandon both her marriage and her son and adopt Islam. Under intense pressure, Mariam repeatedly refused. Ultimately, a Sharia court sentenced her to 100 lashes--and death by hanging.
Shackled is the stunning true story of a courageous young mother who was willing to face death rather than deny her faith. Mariam Ibraheem took a stand on behalf of all women who are maltreated because of their gender and all people who suffer from religious persecution.
Follow Mariam's story from life under Islamic law, through imprisonment and childbirth while shackled, to her remarkable escape from death following an international outcry and advocacy that included diplomats, journalists, activists, and even Pope Francis.
WORLD produces sound journalism grounded in facts and Biblical truth through print magazines, digital articles, and podcasts.
Shackled tells the story of Mariam Ibraheem's persecution and death sentence for refusing to confess faith in Islam. Her sobering account reminds believers that Christians are persecuted for their faith every day, even if headlines don't show it. https://t.co/BbXuQCDg3j
Award-winning, nonprofit digital magazine about religion in public life around the world. Part of @MediaProjectOrg. Exec Ed. @PaulGlader Member of @INN
Deborah Laker interviews Mariam Ibraheem, whose story sparked international outcry and admiration. In 2013, a Shariah court sentenced her to death. Today, she advocates for victims of religious persecution and domestic violence. https://t.co/Ck0LT9Cv4N @TAFtahriralnisa #Shackled
Mariam was born in a refugee camp in Sudan to a teenage mother who found herself rising above grave poverty, domestic violence, and the dangers of Islamic Sharia law. Much like her brave mother, Mariam overcame insurmountable obstacles, including the loss of her younger sister, the tragic death of her mother, and being on death row for her Christian faith. Each and every time, Mariam has risen above her circumstances through her faith in Jesus. She refuses to be intimidated into silence and has proclaimed her faith in front of prison guards, judges, and those seeking to take her life.
Shackled will inspire faith and determination in the midst of what seem to be impossible circumstances. Mariam's life and friendship have forever changed my life to persevere and sustain hope in God. I know her story will change you, too.
--Naghmeh Panahi
Executive Director, Tahrir Alnisa Foundation