My Forbidden Face

by Latifa (excerpt from biography)

Summarize each passage in 3-4 sentences.

Passage 1: Latifa, the author, introduces herself as a young woman living in Kabul, Afghanistan during the rule of the Taliban. She describes the fear that permeates their lives as they constantly face the threat of punishment for violating the strict rules imposed by the regime. Despite this, Latifa is not willing to accept the oppression and decides to document her experiences as a way to resist and preserve her identity.

Passage 2: Latifa recalls a childhood filled with freedom and happiness, where girls and boys played together without restrictions. However, with the rise of the Taliban, everything changed. The regime banned women from leaving their homes without a male escort, and Latifa's father and brother were imprisoned for defying their rules. Latifa realizes that their society has been transformed into one of fear and control, where women are marginalized and silenced.

Passage 3: Latifa recalls her mother's bravery and determination in the face of oppression. Despite living under the constant surveillance of the Taliban, her mother finds ways to educate her daughters and encourage them to pursue their dreams. She tells them stories of strong Afghan women who defied societal expectations, giving them hope and inspiration. Latifa, moved by her mother's spirit, finds the strength to resist, refusing to let the Taliban's regime extinguish their dreams and aspirations.

Passage 1: In this passage, Latifa explains the background and context of her life living in war-torn Kabul, Afghanistan during the control of the Taliban. She describes how her country has changed since the rise of this extremist group and how they have enforced strict Islamic laws, particularly affecting women. She emphasizes the fear and control instilled by the Taliban, including the strict dress code, limitations on education and employment, and the violent punishments for those who disobey their rules.

Passage 2: Latifa recounts her experiences of witnessing the public execution of a woman by the Taliban for allegedly committing adultery. She describes how the execution was conducted in a stadium, where the Taliban, including young boys, filled the stands to watch. The horrifying scene and the public's reactions emphasize the widespread terror and lack of humanity imposed by the Taliban regime. Latifa's personal shock and disgust at this event reflect the cruel reality many Afghan women faced under the Taliban's rule.

Passage 3: In this passage, Latifa shares her mother's story and her clandestine efforts to help women facing violence and abuse at the hands of the Taliban. Latifa's mother, fearing for her safety, secretly helps women by providing them with medical care and assistance in escaping their oppressors. Despite the risks involved, Latifa's mother believes in the importance of helping others and fighting against the injustice inflicted upon women in Afghan society. This account highlights the resilience and bravery of individuals like Latifa's mother who dared to defy the Taliban and provide support to those in need.