Honoring Suraya Pakzad for her tireless dedication to improving the lives of Afghan women.

WHEREAS,

Afghan women have bravely stood up to discrimination; and

WHEREAS,

Women in Afghanistan suffer from inhumane treatment which they cannot face alone; and

WHEREAS,

Suraya Pakzad is the Founder and Executive Director of the Voice of Women Organization (VWO); and

WHEREAS,

Ms. Pakzad courageously risked her life by starting VWO in secret during the Taliban's oppressive rule; and

WHEREAS,

Today Ms. Pakzad helps women openly win elections and start successful careers in public service; and

WHEREAS,

She supports programs in prison for women and their children; and

WHEREAS,

She creates education centers, health centers, food centers, business development centers and legal clinics for women; and

WHEREAS,

Afghanistan will never truly prosper without the contributions of its female population; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA,

That we hereby honor and commend Suraya Pakazad for her commitment to the betterment of Afghan women.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,

That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Suraya Pakzad as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

End