Womankind stands in firm solidarity with the Afghan people here in the United States, in Afghanistan, and around the world.

As the world continues to watch the humanitarian crisis unfold, we are heartbroken for those who had to flee under life-threatening circumstances, for those who are currently still trying to escape, and for those who are left behind, especially women and children.

It is often women and children who are the first to experience violence during conflict, and this trauma can last lifetimes. Every day, Womankind sees firsthand how gender-based violence and intergenerational trauma can affect survivors. It can be hard to undo. Add to that being a refugee and living through war, and now, the trauma is three-fold and compounded.

Womankind is certain that among the many refugees coming from Afghanistan, there will be those who have experienced all three traumas. And we stand ready with services and support to help them and their children build a path to healing.

Here is a list of different ways to support the Afghan community during this time. We will continue to update, so please check back often. Thank you for your support. (Last updated Sept 21, 2021)

• Support Women for Afghan Women WAW is a grassroots civil society organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of disenfranchised Afghan women and girls in Afghanistan and New York. In particular, WAW works to help Afghan women and girls exercise their rights to pursue their individual potential to self-determination, and to representation in all areas of life—political, social, cultural, and economic. WAW relentlessly advocates for women’s rights and challenges the norms that underpin gender-based violence to influence attitudes and bring about change. Comprehensive list of resources here.
• Support Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service They are asking for volunteers to help refugees upon arrival with airport pickups, meal assistance, mentorship, tutoring and more. You can participate if you're in one of the areas where refugees are arriving, and there's a standby list to join for other areas too. You can also donate.
• Support Women for Women International According to the organization, a "generous member of [their] community" will match up to $500,000 in donations for its Afghanistan program. You can give here.
• From the International Rescue Committee Email the White House to ask for immediate aid and access to protection for Afghans here.
• From Middle East Matters Check out their list of resources here.
• From NPR News Check out their list of resources here.
• Here are legal resources from Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc., Pars Equality Center, Evacuate Our Allies, Humans Rights First, and International Refugee Assistance Project.
• From Penn State Law Center of Immigrants' Rights Clinic Legal Pathways and Resources for Afghan Students and Scholars here.
• From Penn State Law Center of Immigrants' Rights Clinic Humanitarian Parole and the Affidavit of Support: FAQ for Sponsors here.
• From Penn State Law Center of Immigrants' Rights Clinic Additional legal resources in Dari and Pashto.