We Will Not Look Away

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00:01
George Gavrilis
This is George Gavrilis, the host of Monuments Woman.

00:05
George Gavrilis

Events have been really distressing for many of us that know and love Afghanistan. And, this week we've decided to not post a regular episode. It just doesn't seem the right thing to do.

00:20
George Gavrilis

It's not that culture doesn't matter. It matters so much. It matters inestimably in any society. But we are living in a very rattling and bizarre historical moment, and one that brings existential threats for many of our best friends in Afghanistan who just don't know what their future's going to be like, particularly the people that have fought for women's rights, that have fought for a better future for all of the people of Afghanistan.

00:57
George Gavrilis

We just don't know what the future is going to hold. What we do know, though, is that— and I want to say this to all our Afghan friends and colleagues— that you matter, and your culture matters, and your history matters. And we will not look away.

01:12
George Gavrilis

One of the beauties of Monuments Woman is that it has made it clear just how vast and amazing the riches of Afghanistan and its people are. And no Taliban victory can take that away. We will be back soon. Like we said, you matter, and we will not look away.

Special Message — We Will Not Look Away 

Topics Covered in this Episode 

August 17, 2021 message to listeners after Kabul fall

Recorded on August 16, 2021