In a compelling feature published by GW Today, Dr. Mary DeRaedt, Clinical Assistant Professor of Counseling and Human Development at GSEHD, shares powerful insights from her work with Afghan women navigating life under Taliban rule.
With a background in international trauma recovery, Dr. DeRaedt provides critical counseling resources for women in Afghanistan—many of whom are seeking support at great personal risk. Recognizing the urgent need after attending an event in 2021, she began hosting weekly virtual sessions for women in Afghanistan focused on trauma, grief, and mental health. These sessions offer participants not only a safe space to share their experiences and build community, but also a rare opportunity to openly discuss the emotional toll of their circumstances.
Unable to provide much needed one-on-one support for all the women, Dr. DeRaedt is exploring ways to expand these resources, including launching a peer-support program that would connect volunteers in the U.S. with Afghan women for regular check-ins, information sharing, and encouragement.
“Afghan women feel like the rest of the world has abandoned them,” DeRaedt said. “It’s important for the women to know that the people of the U.S. care about them and want them to have an education. When women are educated, it can break cycles of radicalization, even for men. Educated mothers can influence their sons, emotionally and positively, which is crucial in interrupting cycles of extremism.
Despite increasing restrictions, Afghan women continue to show resilience, organizing and advocating for themselves in the face of oppression. As part of GSEHD’s commitment to global education and social justice, Dr. DeRaedt’s work is a powerful example of how scholars can stand in solidarity with vulnerable communities worldwide.
Read the full story on GW Today: Women in Afghanistan Continue to Be Resilient Amid Oppression »
If you're interested in supporting educational opportunities for Afghan women, or in volunteering your time, contact: info@friendsofauaf.org