As the tumultuous events of August 15, 2021 began to unfold in Kabul, I found myself at home, completely caught off guard by the reemergence of the Taliban. The day started like any other, with my son, Siawash, heading off to school and me settling down to work on my short story collection. However, by mid-afternoon, chaos had descended upon the city, as the Taliban seized control, prompting the president to flee. In the blink of an eye, the government crumbled, leaving us in a state of shock and disbelief.
Venturing outside to verify the harrowing scenes that were playing out before me on social media and television, the reality of the Taliban’s return sunk in. Our peaceful existence in a democratic society had instantly transformed into one overshadowed by repression. The streets that were once bustling with life stood eerily empty, devoid of men and women alike. It was a stark and sudden transition, ushering in an era of uncertainty and fear.
Amidst the turmoil, my parents embarked on a perilous journey from Herat to Kabul, driven by their concern for my safety. Over the years, I had been a vocal critic of the Taliban, advocating for equality and human rights through my writing. As a divorced woman, I knew I was a target in their eyes. My father, witnessing the gravity of the situation, urged me to leave the country before it was too late.
Thirteen days after the fall of Kabul, a call from a US diplomat offered us a lifeline. While cooking in the kitchen, preparing mash palaw, a traditional mung bean dish, the opportunity to escape presented itself. With heavy hearts, Siawash and I bid farewell to my mother, siblings, and the life we once knew, seeking refuge in a new home in New Haven.
Every day, I wake up to news from Afghanistan, where the Taliban’s oppressive rule is felt by women and children, stripping away their rights and freedom. The tale of Liba, my cousin in Herat, echoes the plight of many as they grapple with the stifling conditions imposed by the Taliban. Born into an era of possibility and progress, she now finds herself confined within the walls of her home, yearning for a return to normalcy.
Despite the physical distance, the memories of Afghanistan linger, a constant presence in our hearts and minds. While we may be safe in our new surroundings, the struggles of our fellow Afghans resonate deeply. Through the lens of photographer Hashem Shakeri, the human stories behind the headlines come to life, underscoring the resilience and spirit of a nation in turmoil.
As we navigate the uncertainty of the present moment, I hold onto the hope that flickers within us all. The darkness that looms today will give way to light tomorrow. In the face of adversity, we must stand strong, united in our resolve to resist and push back against oppression. Together, we will find a way forward, guided by the unwavering resilience of the Afghan spirit.
Homeira Qaderi, a writer, activist, and educator, shares her reflections on the unfolding crisis in Afghanistan, calling for solidarity and strength to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. Through personal anecdotes and poignant observations, she paints a vivid picture of resilience in the face of adversity, offering a message of hope and unity for a brighter tomorrow.
