An Arab woman has started a Facebook page in which she encourages others to post a photo of themselves along with a statement that begins, ‘I am with the uprising of women in the Arab world because…’ The aim is to create an online space where women – often isolated in their own communities – can exchange personal stories and debate issues. Thousands have flocked to post messages. Both men and women. Here are a few…

‘I am with the uprising of women in the Arab world because I would prefer to be free on this earth than a heavenly virgin,’ said Lama from Syria, revealing only her eyes.

‘I strongly support the uprising of women in the Arab world because I am tired of asking my custodian permission for every single action,’ wrote Amal from Saudi Arabia.

‘How can we pretend that we’re fighting dictatorship when each of us is a dictator with his mother or sister or wife or daughter? If we treat them like slaves, they shall only bring up slaves,’ posted Egyptian film director Amr Salama. (I think this is my favourite. He makes such great sense.)

A teenage boy from Saudi Arabia said, ‘I am with the uprising of women in the Arab world because I am 16 years old and according to the law, I am the guardian of my widowed mother. Revolt, mother! You are strong, you are free!’

The page has collected more than 82,000 followers so far. Many don’t reveal their faces which says so much about the lack of female freedom in the Arab world. I’m in awe of their courage in posting at all. Talk about Daniel throwing himself into the lion’s den. Which puts me in mind of this card.

Strength: Inner strength. Courage. Listening to your conscience. Doing what you know to be right despite the obstacles.

It’s so heartening to see Arab women finding their voice. I don’t know if this Facebook page will make much difference to their lives but I hope it will.

Do you think social media can change the world?