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Frumi

Aurat March Karachi - March 8, 2020


A cool breeze blanketed a sunny day. Green grass stretched from smoky road all the way to where fresher air prevailed. The colonial facade of an 1865 edifice serenely gave it’s blessing.

Citizens loitered the open space, conversation welcomed by a baby blue sky. Some leaned against trees possibly older than the building; while the majority gravitated to a center point that was effervescent with energy.


Well organized and united for a singular cause; supposed miscreants listened to a speaker on stage that told her story. Subjugated to much in life; her hard heart was nothing but tender. Speaking sternly of justice and her rights; she was also very cognizant to welcome and thank all allies in the audience.

No extreme speech was made, no burkas were burned; and to be honest the need really wasn’t there. This was not a rejection of our culture or way of life; but simply a reminder that for every man walking this earth there is also an equally important woman doing the same.

A woman has thoughts, feelings and ambitions just like any man would. Some choose to be homemakers, others to provide. Some choose to dress conservatively, others have different preferences. Some choose a private life, while others like to be seen.

The point simply boils down to a right to define the path of one’s own life, and an opportunity to make mistakes and learn. The speakers didn’t hate men, all men or any men; but spoke of a system of oppression that has outlived its use.


As living creatures, I strongly believe that one has the right to exist the way one chooses. If it is a decision that is not directly harming another, what one does in one’s own life should not be impinged upon.


Just like men disagree with men, men have an equal right to disagree with women (and women with other women). If you don’t like what someone is doing; offer your suggestion and then walk away. You are not bound to them and they are not bound to you. Neither better or worse; simply different and destined to journey with different people.

That being said, not all available choices however difficultly won are worth exercising. Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you necessarily should. Look into yourself and find a space of authenticity; neither a reaction to the past or an obsession with a fantasized future. Find alignment with what you stand for and why; simply living that life.


Women were forced to march on the streets because of a society that still does little to serve them. We marched against colonialism in the 1940’s and we will march against the patriarchy in 2020; no space to oppress and indeed to be oppressed.


Injustice never holds, though occasionally it takes time to bring about a better reality. I walk proudly and shoulder to shoulder with women who will make this country great and help shape it into something we are even more proud of.

 

Standing silently against a now dusky sky; a bastion of colonial strength lies forever changed. Frere Hall, no longer a symbol of fear and subjugation; it’s inside beats with the beautiful work and cultural representation of a child of this soil.


Always a patriot. Always a feminist. Speak out against any and all injustice. If it is ever done to you, you will not be alone.


~Frumi

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