The series "Martyred," depicts women protesting in the streets of Kabul after the slaying of a young woman, Farkhuna Malikzada. Farkhunda was brutally killed by an angry mob after being falsely accused of burning the Quran. Women immediately took to the streets to call for justice for Farkhunda and all the daughters of Afghanistan. Their strength and courage in their quest for women to be seen as equal citizens inspired the Martyred series.
My hope is that when viewers see the emotion and hurt in the faces of these women, they are reminded of their humanity. I hope it inspires them to see past current rhetoric of “terrorism”, and welcome those in need with open arms and minds, and that we as Americans can continue to cherish the diversity that this country was built on.