Freedom Marches On

[selenite0]

Afghanistan just elected national and provincial legislatures. There's a couple of significant things here. The women are feeling freer, if marginally so (that's the hem of her burka on top of her head--I presume she'll be fully tented when she's walking home). The jewelry and bright outfit may be a better indication of how things are improving. There's also been very little violence despite extreme threats from the Taliban. So Afghanistan seems headed for the happy ending. Let's hope Iraq is doing this well in 2007.

Meanwhile, The President of Pakistan made a speech to the American Jewish Congress meeting. Since when was "Leader of Muslim country meets with Jews" a minor news story? I'd put this as one of the payoffs for Israel withdrawing from Gaza.

Hat tip to Varifrank.

Comments

[celticdragonfly.livejournal.com]

I think I've read here and there that they typically wear bright colors and jewelry underneath them.

[selenite.livejournal.com]

In Saudi Arabia, yes. The Taliban used to execute women for wearing makeup or jewelry.

[hornedhopper.livejournal.com]

Definitely Saudi and Pakistani/Afghani women do. Many moons ago, I taught a Saudi wives ESL class at ASU. Because no man could pick them up, I got to drive the passenger van to pick up my students, all waiting in their somber outfits (not burkhas, but headscarves and the outer cloak that reached neck to wrists to ankles). One time, a good friend who also taught ESL to a Saudi wife had a party off campus, just for the women.

Under the scarves and dusters, were gorgeous hairdos, designer dresses, and beautiful jewelry. Put me right to shame (g)!

[unwilly.livejournal.com]

Great pic, speaks volumes.

A number of Arab states have sent, or are sending envoys to Israel.

A trickle of progress.

[carbonelle.livejournal.com]

It's also tactically wise. I wonder if the local mobs there are aware of this?