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QALAT CITY, Afghanistan – A select element of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, and the brigade’s Female Engagement Team spent their day recently providing outreach to a group of Afghan women in Qalat City in Zabul province.
One of the goals of the FET is to listen to the needs of the women and to provide a voice to the female population. Due to their cultural beliefs, Afghan women are required to keep their faces covered and are prohibited from talking to males, including the predominantly male U.S. military.
This most recent meeting was a chance for members of FET and the local women to discuss new projects and future opportunities to come together with a sense of community.
“One of our biggest concerns right now is health care,” said an Afghan woman. “We want to know how to take care of ourselves and our families without having to depend on the local hospitals because of how things are for us right now.”
Most importantly, the women were able to express opinions about everything ranging from women’s rights to being taught how to aid themselves and their families.
“The women always seem to enjoy speaking with the female engagement teams,” said Maj. Maria Rodriguez, the 1/25 SBCT provost marshal and FET leader. “They are excited for the opportunity to voice their concerns and to feel included in the decisions being made throughout their country.”
“The important part of the meetings is that both sides walk away with a better understanding for each other’s needs,” Rodriguez continued. “It’s inspirational for both parties, and it feels good to know we are making a difference in the lives of our Afghan counterparts.”
This passion for human interaction and genuine kind-heartedness is what gives FET its advantage in engaging the local people.
“They have helped us a lot,” said another Afghan local. “They are really great about teaching us new things and listening to any ideas that we may have.”
As the 1/25th SBCT continues daily operations in southern Afghanistan, Rodriguez and the FET plan on dedicating many future operations toward improving the rights and safety of the female population in Zabul province, Afghanistan.
| Date Taken: | 07.03.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 07.08.2011 01:21 |
| Story ID: | 73417 |
| Location: | QALAT CITY, AF |
| Web Views: | 201 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
This work, Arctic Wolves Female Engagement Team brings hope to local Afghan women, by PFC Andreka Johnson, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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