On Blasphemy Day, 30 September, we need your voice more than ever. Join Ex-Muslims International in demanding the decriminalisation of blasphemy laws and the immediate release of Ibtissame Betty Lachgar, a renowned rights activist unjustly imprisoned in Morocco.
Betty has been sentenced to two and a half years behind bars—for nothing more than posting a photo of herself in London wearing a t-shirt that read “Allah is Lesbian.” She is a cancer survivor, urgently in need of medical care. Every day she remains imprisoned is a risk to her health, her life, and her freedom.
CEMB Spokesperson Maryam Namazie highlights Betty’s case here.
Also, see Press Dossier for more information.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
✦ Take a mugshot-style photo holding a #FreeBetty sign—or add the text #FreeBetty #BlasphemyDay2025 to your picture.
✦ Post it with a short caption, for example:
• “Blasphemy is not a crime. No one should be jailed for a t-shirt! #FreeBetty #BlasphemyDay2025”
• “Betty is a cancer survivor. She urgently needs medical care. #FreeBetty #BlasphemyDay2025”
• “If Betty can be imprisoned for a t-shirt, any of us could. #FreeBetty #BlasphemyDay2025”
Sign a petition, write letters to the Moroccan authorities or your representatives and spread the word. Visit Ex-MI website to find out more ways to support Betty. CEMB is a founding member organisation of EX-MI.
UPCOMING EVENTS THAT WILL HONOUR BETTY
See CEMB’s Upcoming Events here, including monthly support groups.
International Conference: Science on the side of choice
27 September 2025 – Split, Croatia
Maryam Namazie will address restrictions on women’s reproductive rights in countries under Islamic rule. Betty was scheduled to join this panel, organised by the Center for Civil Courage (Brave Sisters). Maryam will now speak in her place, paying tribute to Betty’s courageous activism. More information.
CEMB Meet-Up: Secularism is a Woman’s Issue
Friday 3 October 2025. 7:00-8:30pm, join a discussion with Anna Zobnina, Ibtissame Betty Lachgar* and Maryam Namazie on Secularism is a Woman’s Issue. Chaired by Ali Malik. Tickets: £5. GET YOUR TICKETS HERE.
FiLiA Largest Feminist Conference in Europe. Brighton
Date: 10-12 October 2025
Friday 10 October, 4-5:30Pm, Panel Discussion on Apartheid Against Women: A Crime Against Humanity with Gita Sahgal, Maryam Aldossari, Maryam Namazie, Munira Baharaki and Pragna Patel.
Saturday 11 October, 4-5:30pm, Celebrating Dissent: Blasphemous Women with Ibtissame Betty Lachgar*, Maryam Namazie and Yasmine Elbaramawy.
More information here.
* * Betty remains unjustly imprisoned. We will continue to demand her immediate and unconditional release and honour her work at these events.
Thank you for standing with us.