NEW YORK, (September 16, 2021) –  Caroline Barrett, SanovaWorks Vice President of Operations

Over the last 20 years, we have seen life-changing advances for girls’ education and agency in Afghanistan. Sadly that progress is now at risk.

SanovaWorks stands in solidarity with Afghan women and girls here in the United States, in Afghanistan, and around the world. We firmly believe that every woman and girl has the right to education, safety, autonomy, and equality. 

SanovaWorks has made a donation to the organization, VOICE. WomanKind and Malala Fund are also offering support for Afghan women, girls, and refugees.

Womankind 

Womankind stands in firm solidarity with the Afghan people here in the United States, in Afghanistan, and around the world.

“As the world continues to watch the humanitarian crisis unfold, we are heartbroken for those who had to flee under life-threatening circumstances, for those who are currently still trying to escape, and for those who are left behind, especially women and children. 

It is often women and children who are the first to experience violence during conflict, and this trauma can last lifetimes. Every day, Womankind sees firsthand how gender-based violence and intergenerational trauma can affect survivors. It can be hard to undo. Add to that being a refugee and living through war, and now, the trauma is three-fold and compounded.

Womankind is certain that among the many refugees coming from Afghanistan, there will be those who have experienced all three traumas. And we stand ready with services and support to help them and their children build a path to healing.

Here is a list of different ways to support the Afghan community during this time. We will continue to update, so please check back often.”

Malala Fund

“Over the last 20 years, advances in girls’ education in Afghanistan have meant that more young women have been able to go to school and realize their ambitions for the future. But that progress — and those dreams — are now at risk.

The Taliban are back in control in Afghanistan. Thousands of girls may now be forced to marry or take on domestic labor. Young women who resist may be met with violent retribution.

We face new challenges in the fight to see every girl in school, but Malala Fund’s commitment to girls’ education remains the same. In Afghanistan and around the world: Every girl has the right to learn. Every girl has the right to safety and protection.”

Learn more about Malala Fund’s work for girls’ education in Afghanistan.

“Malala Fund is working to ensure the safety and security of our grantees in Afghanistan. Since 2017, we have invested close to $1.9 million in local Afghan organizations focused on addressing a nationwide shortage of female teachers and improving the quality of girls’ education. We are doing everything in our power to aid our partners and the thousands of girls they support — and remain steadfast in our mission to advance girls’ education in Afghanistan.

We are also focusing our efforts on advocating for leaders to open borders for Afghan civilians, increase humanitarian aid, and track and investigate violations of the rights of women and girls.

Malala Fund’s work is more important than ever.  

READ Malala’s article on Assembly about amplifying the voices of Afghan girls and women.