Beyond the headlines of the Taliban takeover in mid-August 2021, Afghanistan’s society is embroiled in a perpetual state of war. The effects of conflict permeate every aspect of daily life, and as dusk settles upon Kabul, the city becomes devoid of women. Whether due to an unwritten law or an official mandate, the absence of women in the darkness of the night is a stark reminder of Afghanistan’s deeply entrenched male-dominated society.

In a city where men have been compelled to emigrate as a result of severe economic problems and poverty, the burden falls heavily upon the women who remain. Filled with resilience, the women of this city navigate the intricacies of motherhood, carrying within them a delicate balance of hope, sorrow, and fear. Decades of war and unrest have forced them into a position of staying put, despite the lack of choice, but their apparent compliance does not signify their acceptance. They are determined to oppose the circumstances and make their voices heard.

In an act of defiance and resistance, women from small cities far from the capital embarked on a courageous journey to Shahr-e-Now Park in central Kabul during the tumultuous early days of the Taliban’s takeover. Amidst the overwhelming restrictions and the weight of cultural and socio-political forces, these women display a tangible and humble resilience. Stripped of choices and opportunities, the women of Afghanistan have learned the art of simply “being,” and navigating life’s challenges with grace and strength. Even in the face of poverty, the quest for a loaf of bread next to a bread shop carries a distinctly feminine touch. A chain of motherhood connects Afghan women across generations, spanning from those who experienced the Taliban’s rule two decades ago to young girls who have now found themselves under its control once again. This unbreakable chain serves as a symbol of support and solidarity.

In a society plagued by war and dominated by male authority, Afghan women persistently endure and resist. Their unwavering spirit and determination embody a resilience that is both powerful and profound. Through their struggles and their unwavering commitment to motherhood and their communities, these women transcend the limitations imposed upon them. They are the hidden heroes of Afghanistan, forging a path forward amidst the chaos and uncertainty of their war-torn homeland.