I have 25 years of work experience in different fields, including literature. I am a poet and writer who has published many books. I’m also a civil activist and peace ambassador. And I am the founder of a cultural organization for women in my province, through which I have facilitated work and job opportunities for women, supported women and girls who are victims of domestic violence, and spread awareness regarding gender-based discrimination.
When I was working as a Gender Advisor for the Government, and as a Peace Ambassador, I conducted several meetings and workshops in my province among different groups of people – male and female – in the city and in districts.
I don’t have a job now. I just conduct meetings and group discussions with women and girls because as an elder women and activist, most women are familiar with me and want to be in contact; therefore, I meet with them at my home.
I JUST ENCOURAGE WOMEN AND GIRLS TO HAVE PATIENCE AND NOT LOSE HOPE. GOOD DAYS WILL COME AND EVERYTHING WILL BE AS IT WAS BEFORE. WE WILL GET OUR JOBS BACK AND SCHOOLS’ AND UNIVERSITIES’ DOORS WILL REOPEN FOR GIRLS.
At the same time, I am afraid that if our new generation remains marginalized from education then what will be their future? Former government personnel will remain jobless and under threat like they are now. We even cannot imagine our future in Afghanistan.
I have my own organization, but I don’t have permission to serve women through my organization. I receive phone calls and requests for support from women and girls but I cannot do anything. The sudden change in my country scares me and all women have lost 20 years of development. I am trying to keep a low profile, because I don’t want my family to face any issues or threats because of my activities.
Since 15 August, I have been trying to continue activities for women and girls. I met with the de facto authorities (DFA) and explained my work, reassuring them that I am a Muslim woman and know all aspects of Islam. I did not get permission from the DFA yet, but I will keep trying.
I DON’T WANT TO LOSE HOPE BUT SOMETIMES THE SITUATION REALLY AFFECTS MY MENTAL HEALTH, AND I JUST WANT TO LEAVE EVERYTHING, INCLUDING THE COUNTRY.
I hope that Afghan women and girls will get permission to return to their education and I hope that our current unclear future will change.
The international community should ask Islamic countries to speak with the DFA and convince them, according to Islamic rules and laws, to give Afghan women and girls the right to an education and to work. Islam gives us the right to work, engage in politics, and obtain an education. We are half of our country, and we can play a better role in the country’s development and economy.