Malalai Joya: A Woman Among Warlords

Prospects for Afghan Women and Non-Intervention In My Country

Malalai Joya, 35, first gained international attention in 2003 when she spoke out publicly against the domination of warlords in Afghanistan. In 2005 she became one of 68 women elected to the 249-seat National Assembly and was the youngest member of the Afghan parliament.

An extraordinary young woman raised in the refugee camps of Iran and Pakistan, Joya became a teacher in secret girls’ schools, hiding her books under her burqa so the Taliban couldn’t find them; she helped establish a free medical clinic and orphanage in her impoverished home province of Farah.

In 2010, Time Magazine placed Malalai Joya on their annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world. Foreign Policy Magazine listed her in its annual list of the Top 100 Global Thinkers. In March, 2011, The Guardian listed her among the “Top 100 women activists and campaigners.”

Her widely praised book, “A Woman Among Warlords: The Extraordinary Story of an Afghan Who Dared to Raise Her Voice,” was published 2009 by Scribner in the U.S. Copies of her book will be available for purchase and signing by Ms. Joya.

Contributions requested at the door.

Donations to Afghan Women’s Mission will also be requested.


Program Sponsored By
Peninsula Peace and Justice Center
Co-Sponsored By
Peace and Social Action Committee of Palo Alto Friends Meeting
and
Multifaith Voices for Peace and Justice

National Tour Organized By
United National Antiwar Coalition and Afghan Women’s Mission