Giving women in Afghanistan a voice – that was the motivation of our Terre des Hommes group in Bergisch Gladbach. In December and January, they presented the impressive artwork of Afghan women at the adult education center (VHS) as part of the art exhibition "Hope in Darkness."
Women in Afghanistan – Every great change begins with the first step. "
There are voices that say we cannot bring about political changes or influence governments," explained Lailoma Nemani, former deputy director of DoWA (Department of Women Affairs in Afghanistan), at the opening of "Hope in Darkness." She asked the approximately 50 guests present to imagine waking up in the morning as a woman in Afghanistan, opening the door, and encountering armed men on the street shouting, "Stay home – your place is the home! A good woman has no connections to society or the public; she doesn't ask questions, criticize, or speak out! And any defiance can cost you your life!" Nemani called for a stronger voice for women in Afghanistan, greater visibility, and action against anyone attempting to erase the identity of women in Afghanistan. SA*, women's rights activist and co-founder of the "Hope in Darkness" project, also spoke powerfully about the situation of girls and women in Afghanistan and was available to answer questions and engage in discussions with interested attendees. An event that is both thought-provoking and moving, leaving a lasting impression!
The exhibition »Hope in Darkness«, presented by Terre des Hommes , Aktion Neue Nachbarn, Begegnungscafé Himmel & Ääd, Evangelische Kirchengemeinde Altenberg/Schildgen, Förderverein der VHS Bergisch Gladbach and JugendMigrationsDienst Rhein-Berg, showcases impressive and touching works by Afghan women who express their experiences under the Taliban regime, feelings, wishes and demands in their paintings.
* For their personal protection, we will respect their wish for anonymity.
Further information about the exhibition and loan can be found here on our website.
Contact: Dr. Renate Vorwerk, Terre des Hommes Bergisch Gladbach Group, bergisch.gladbach@tdh-ag.de (
) Photo: Markus Bollen