Seeta was born in Farah Province to a mother and a father who were both police officers. During the Taliban years, the family fled to Iran. She is a working journalist and as part of that job, she hopes to write pieces that help defend the rights of Afghan women.
Adalah Kabiri, a teacher at the journalism school at Herat University, applauded the opening of the center. “This is a very comfortable place for all women who work with the media,” Kabiri said. “This center has opened the door for women journalists and can help women improve their knowledge.”
I saw a shop and went there where I found some potatoes and tomatoes with eggs. I bought these things. I did not have any brother; it was my responsibility when my father was out. I came back and my mother cooked some things from the eggs and potatoes, and we had some things to eat but not enough.
“My life is filled with problems,” said another worker at the factory who would only identify herself as the mother of Wakil Ahamd, her oldest son. “My husband left me and my children four years ago. I went to live with my parents. I do not even have a pillow and yet I have the power to work.
Seema told the media that in Herat’s jail for women, she did not have any problems; people were kind to her and she even learned the trade of carpet weaving. She asked the authorities in Herat to keep her in jail so she could be safe from her family. She is ready to pass her life in jail, but she is not ready to go back to the home that destroyed her future and hopes.
Dear men! / Just one time look and / You will find much power in women / Do you think only men have the right to work? / Only men can rebuild the country? / Why?
“But why should she be under a burqa today? She has only this day to start her life with happiness. Why should she be hidden under a burqa even on her wedding day?”
We need to continue to walk and never give up. This is my announcement: walk and walk. With every step, your foot may hit a stone, but leave it behind and continue, and you will find yourself in the right place.
My country Afghanistan is a beautiful place / I live in the western part of it / I love my country and my people, / But when I hear about suicide attacks and insurgent actions / I am disappointed. / Why does this happen in my beautiful country? / When will it stop?
Yes, a mother waits to see her child / after four years, she doesn’t know how he looks / She imagines he looks like her, / But maybe not. / She hopes he is learning / But she has no way to know.
The Afghan Women's Writing Project : Dedicated to the Memory of Zarmeena
Security notice:
The security situation can be difficult for many women in Afghanistan, especially those who are determined to further their education or those who frankly tell their stories. Out of concern for their safety, this blog will not use family names or specific locators.
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