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