Fatema Mernissi was a Moroccan sociologist and writer, born on September 27, 1940, in Fez, Morocco. She is best known for her work on gender and Islam, exploring the roles of women in Muslim societies. Mernissi's influential books, such as Beyond the Veil and The Veil and the Male Elite, challenge traditional views and advocate for women's rights. Throughout her career, Mernissi received numerous awards for her contributions to literature and social science. She was a prominent voice in discussions about feminism and Islam, and her research has inspired many to rethink cultural and religious norms regarding gender. Mernissi passed away on November 30, 2020.