The Continuing Struggle of Afghan Women: A Three Part Film Series

Part 1 * Search for Freedom - Directed by: Munizae Jahangir

June 25th 6:30-9:00pm

Carecen * 2845 W. 7th Street, LA (between Hoover & Vermont)

$5 donation requested

For more information please call (323) 687-1193

Synopsis: Search for Freedom traces the dramatic social and political history of Afghanistan from the 1920s to the present through the stories of four remarkable women: Princess Shafiqa Saroj, sister of

the beloved progressive King Amanullah (1919-1929); Mairman Parveen, the first woman to sing on Afghan radio; Moshina, a war widow and survivor of a Taliban massacre; and Sohaila, an exiled medical

student who ran underground schools for RAWA (Revolutionary Association of Afghan Women) during the Taliban regime. Through their personal stories, a surprising portrait of Afghanistan's history emerges. Stunning archival footage from the early 20th century

captures a time of remarkable progress and freedom for women that belies most Western perceptions. Other historical footage and Jahnagir's incisive commentary reveal women's realities and

resilience under near constant occupation, first with the Soviet invasion, then under the Mujahadeen and more recently under the repressive Taliban. Defying and clarifying the image of Afghan women as mere victims, Search for Freedom offers a nuanced portrait of women who find choices where none are offered, who continue to find hope in the face of exile and isolation.

Featuring also a screening of the short film RISE

Synopsis: Rise: Revolutionary Women Reenvisioning Afghanistan (2002) Shot by members of the Revolutionary Association of the Women of

Afghanistan, using both a regular and WITNESS hidden camera, Rise documents the lives of Afghans following the recent American-led military campaign. RAWA members interview refugees, victims of

factional fighting and Taliban abuse as well as residents who witnessed the recent bombings of civilian homes. RAWA spokeswomen

call for gender equality, democracy, freedom, and an end to foreign military intervention.

This event is organized by supporters of RAWA. RAWA is the oldest political / social organization of Afghan women struggling for peace, freedom, democracy & women's rights in fundamentalism blighted Afghanistan.

Proceeds from the Film Series will be going to save one of RAWA's schools - Hewad High School in Rawalpindi, Pakistan from closure.