It is a sad day for Pakistani women following the acquittal of five of the six men who gang raped Mukhtaran Mai, a woman who runs an all girls school in a small village in the eastern part of the country. The sixth mans sentence was reduced from the death penalty to life in prison. This is so sad. The rape was ordered by a council member in Punjab to take place, as punishment for a crime her twelve year old brother had allegedly done.
It is more common for women to never speak of these things, and often suicide is their way out of the pain, but Mukhataran Mai was brave enough to tell her story and take on the lengthy legal battle, in turn she became a pioneer in Pakistan for women's rights, which are largely non-existent. She has become a recognized figure in her country and with the release of these men her life is in imminent danger.
In an interview with BBC she stated that she will not flee her village, leaving her school, her students, and her family. She will stay and face whatever fate comes her way, even death. I hope this woman's voice is heard around the world, that change can come to that region, so the women can become free.
"I declare to you that woman must not depend upon the protection of man, but must be taught to protect herself and there I take my stand."
~Susan B. Anthony
The connection between women's human rights, gender equality, socioeconomic development and peace is increasingly apparent.
~Mahnaz Afkhami
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