A Cambridge University scholar, Parwana Fayyaz, has shed light on the perilous journey of Afghan women writers to share their voices with the world. Fayyaz, a Kabul-born Persian literature expert, played a crucial role in translating a collective diary penned by 21 Afghan women during the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021.
The women, connected through a WhatsApp group, documented their experiences and emotions as their city fell into the hands of the Taliban. She documented their experiences under Taliban rule. Dr. Fayyaz’s book titled “My Dear Kabul,” offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of women facing unprecedented challenges and restrictions.
“Kabul is a beautiful city, but it’s also terrifying, especially for women,” Dr. Fayyaz explained. She described her deep love and fear for the country, mirroring the sentiments expressed by the women writers. Before the Taliban takeover, many of these women had enjoyed careers and the freedom to publish their work. However, their lives were drastically altered as they were forced to flee or live in constant fear.
One of the writers, Zainab, reflected on the transient nature of life, writing, “You cannot take everything with you.” Dr. Fayyaz emphasized the importance of amplifying these voices, stating, “We are doing everything we can to keep our writers safe, but at the same time they want their voices heard.”
“My Dear Kabul” is a testament to the resilience and determination of Afghan women. Through their stories, they seek to shed light on the struggles they face and inspire global solidarity. Dr. Fayyaz hopes that the world will honor these women by reading their stories and supporting their ongoing fight for freedom and expression.
