Supporters of Malalai Joya in Australia Demand her Reinstatement

Dear sisters and brothers of DCMJ,

We are thinking of Joya and you all and I have included photos of our event for May 21.

For the many Supporters of Malalai Joya, Australia, May 21 is a very significant day. We are well aware that one year ago, on this day, the Afghan Parliament voted to expel one of their elected members, Malalai Joya, who despite the threat of death, has spoken honestly and courageously for the ordinary Afghans she represents but as a consequence, her legitimate voice and place in the Afghan parliament has been questionably denied.

Last Sunday in Melbourne, Supporters of Malalai Joya Australia held a dinner in support of Afghan women and Malalai Joya's expulsion from parliament was a key part of the night's focus. Over 100 supporters were present and called for the decision of the Afghan parliament to be reversed as well as Malalai Joya's reinstatement. The group also demanded that Malalai Joya, a strong defender of human rights, particularly for women, should be given support and protection by the Afghan Parliament to continue her vital work. The Afghan Parliament, as a signatory to the international Convention for the Elimination of the Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) has an obligation to both support and defend her.

In solidarity and with best wishes.
Supporters of Malalai Joya Australia

Protest in Canada in support of Joya's Reinstatement

May 21, 2008: Libby Davies, Member of Canadian parliament speaks in support of Joya in a rally in Vancouver, Canada.