Activists Use Internet, E-mail to Advocate for Afghan Women's Rights
November 17, 2001
Activists Use Internet, E-mail to Advocate for Afghan Women's Rights
November 17, 2001
NOW Responds to Laura Bush Radio Address
November 17, 2001
"The U.S. and allies abroad would do well to follow the lead of feminist groups, echoed in this morning's statement by First Lady Laura Bush, and ensure that Afghan women's rights are restored in the post-Taliban era," said National Organization for Women (NOW) President Kim Gandy. "In fact, thousands of cyber-activists have been bombarding the Administration with demands that women be included in rebuilding an Afghan democracy."
"World leaders must bring women to the table in reconstructing the Afghan government and must make women's rights a priority," Gandy said. "NOW's e-mail action alerts and online letters make it easy for activists to get this message to U.S. government leaders."
Last month NOW launched an Internet and e-mail campaign urging U.S. lawmakers and government officials to insist that women's human and democratic rights be protected against the warlords vying for post-Taliban control of Afghanistan. The e-messages also demand that Afghan women leaders be sought out and included in reconstructing the country's government. By logging on to NOW's website, www.now.org, activists can send messages to President Bush, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Sen. Joseph Biden and United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan.
"Prior to the Taliban's 1996 takeover, Afghan women were scientists, professors, members of parliament and cabinet members and university professors. They led corporations, non-profit organizations and local communities," Gandy said. "Clearly, there are many Afghan women well-equipped to participate in leading Afghanistan back to full democracy. And in under sixty seconds, anyone can send a message to decision-makers demanding that these women leaders be at the table to help rebuild and lead their country."
"U.S. officials must listen to the diverse cross-section of cyber-activists from across the country and beyond," Gandy said. "What they're saying is that warlords cannot be allowed to divide the spoils and shatter this opportunity for an Afghan government that includes women as full and equal human beings. Women must be an equal partners in post-Taliban Afghanistan."
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