Approximately forty years ago, in the early 1980s, the conflict and confusion in Afghanistan forced millions of people to escape from their place. Afghan families were moving to Pakistan in their journey to a more secure place without any money, no material things, and only the clothes on their backs and a tough mission to live with respect and dignity.

A Salute to Afghan Strength and Dignity

The refugee camps had been built near the borders and settled the overcrowded population without any delay. Cities such as Peshawar, Quetta, and Karachi accommodated most of the individuals who fled to those areas. However, hardship and instability did not shatter the Afghans’ determination to survive. They chose not to wait for any donations or sympathy; they got up and started out rebuilding their lives themselves practically from the beginning.

Men went from operating small retail stalls on road corners to a variety of items like sandals to caps, brief to a pile of carpets. Their wives also got involved in tailoring and embroidery work that they took up so that the family could be supported financially.

Their children joined them after school to do their part, and they learned the concept of working hard from a young age. Among the children were those who became shoeshiners, guards, construction workers, and vendors, thus contributing to local markets. We honor the women of these families. They kept their ways even when faced with many difficulties. They took pride in their customs, beliefs, and veil. We never see them with pardah in their all journey.

We give our heartfelt salaam and a proud salute to our Afghan brothers and sisters who came here with nothing but stood tall with courage. They never lowered their eyes. They never cried for help. They chose a life where they are the ones in charge, even if it meant being at the bottom of the success ladder.

The families from Afghanistan have eventually adapted to the society and economy of Pakistan and have invested heavily in the country. Their shops were very popular, particularly in the markets of Peshawar. These people were open, honest, hardworking, and genuine, and that brought them the admiration of the society around them.

After a lot of survival, so many Afghanistan families are on their way back to the country, and we salute their bravery from the bottom of our hearts. We give our best wishes to them.