Historical Context
As many people may know, one of the first things a baby does when they are born is scream. This scream is a protest of the pain they’ve been made to endure. It is also a sign of health, opening up a newborn’s airways so they can breathe. In fact, if a baby doesn’t cry, they are made to by a doctor. Crying out is the first lesson one is ever taught. It is ironic, therefore, that shouting out and protesting are actions that are often frowned upon and forbidden once babies become adults.
This irony is very evident in the country of Afghanistan. Laws prohibit women from talking outside of their homes, and require them to cover their bodies and hair. Women cannot attend in-person school beyond sixth grade, and may not own businesses or hold certain jobs. These rules, as well as many more, are implemented by the Taliban.
Beginning in 1990, the Taliban initially started as a group of farmers, store-workers, and laborers. These people, all of whom were men, banded together during the Afghan Civil War. They gained power and followers as the years progressed, and in 1996 they took over the Afghan government. Once in control, they put in place a series of strict laws based on the Quran, or the religious text of Islam. Despite protests and pushback from citizens, these laws were brutally enforced during the Taliban’s first period of control. Government soldiers surveilled the streets of towns, and anyone found to be breaking a law was punished through verbal or physical means. Although the group lost authority in 2001, in August of 2021 they regained full power over the government. The same laws and restrictions were put back in place, and continue to be implemented to this day.
These laws have vastly changed the lives of all Afghan people, especially women and minorities. With such strict rules, citizens have learned to appreciate every small freedom. For example, many online schools provide classes to Afghan girls beyond sixth grade. This allows them to continue their education and create a future for themselves. Underground therapy and mental health services have also been created to help treat the anxiety and depression that have unfortunately become common during these last few years.
Although many of the women of Afghanistan have been cast down and forced to leave their jobs and schools, they continue to dream. Hopefully, change will come and their dreams can come true. Until that occurs, however, sharing the stories of these women serves as a reminder to them that their dreams have significance in the eyes of others.
