Afghan B-Girl Manizha Talash, a member of the Refugee Olympic Team, was disqualified from the Paris Games for displaying the words "Free Afghan Women" on her cape during her pre-qualifier breaking routine. The protest was aimed at highlighting the restrictions faced by women and girls in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.
Key Takeaways
- Manizha Talash, an Afghan breakdancer, was disqualified from the Paris Olympics for displaying a political slogan.
- The slogan "Free Afghan Women" was aimed at protesting the Taliban’s restrictions on women.
- Talash was competing as part of the Refugee Olympic Team.
- The World DanceSport Federation confirmed her disqualification for violating Olympic rules.
- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) bans political slogans on the field of play or podiums.
The Incident
During her performance, Talash wore a light blue cape with the phrase "Free Afghan Women" in large white letters. This led to her immediate disqualification. The World DanceSport Federation, breaking’s governing body, confirmed that the 21-year-old was disqualified for violating Olympic rules that ban political slogans and statements on the field of play or podiums.
Background
Talash, who now resides in Spain, was competing in a pre-qualifier against India Sardjoe of the Netherlands. She was the only female member of a breakdancing club in Kabul and often received death threats. When the Taliban took over Afghanistan in 2021, she fled to Pakistan with her 12-year-old brother and was ultimately granted asylum in Spain.
Refugee Olympic Team
The Refugee Olympic Team is participating in the Olympics for the third time, with 37 athletes competing in 12 different sports. This team’s inclusion aims to symbolize solidarity and offer hope to displaced individuals globally. Afghanistan is represented by three women and three men on this team, highlighting the struggles of Afghan athletes, particularly women, under the Taliban regime.
Women’s Rights in Afghanistan
Since the Taliban took over in August 2021, women’s rights in Afghanistan have seen significant setbacks. Girls’ high schools have been closed, women face travel restrictions without a male guardian, and are banned from parks and gyms. Despite these circumstances, the IOC has stressed that no Taliban officials have been accredited for the Paris Games.
IOC’s Stance
Both the head and secretary general of Afghanistan’s national Olympic committee, recognized by the IOC, are currently living in exile. The IOC’s decision to allow Afghan athletes, especially women, to participate in the Games serves as a strong repudiation of the Taliban’s oppressive policies.
Conclusion
Talash’s disqualification has sparked a conversation about the intersection of sports and politics, and the role of athletes in advocating for social issues. While the IOC maintains its stance on political neutrality, the incident has brought global attention to the plight of Afghan women under Taliban rule.
