10/12/2024
Day 10 of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
As we continue these 16 days of activism, December 4th remains one of the hardest days for me. It marks the day when my sister-in-law, Surjit Athwal, was taken abroad under false pretenses and never returned.
Her life was taken away, so young, so full of potential. She was a mother, a daughter, a sister, a aunt, a woman, who deserved to live, to thrive, and to be happy. Instead, she was murdered in a so-called “honour killing.”
There is no honour in taking someone’s life.
Why should we live in fear❓️
Why should we endure such cruelty at the hands of those who claim to love us❓️
Why should anyone have to fight for their basic right to live freely and safely❓️
For me, speaking out was one of the hardest and most dangerous decisions I’ve ever made. Faced with relentless threats and immense pressure to stay silent.
Every step I took toward seeking justice felt like walking a tightrope, knowing my life and the safety of my children was constantly at risk. But I could not stay silent when her voice was stolen?
I refused to back down because Surjit’s story deserved to be heard, and her killers needed to be held accountable.
Surjit’s life was cut short, but her story will not be forgotten and her legacy lives on
It stands as a reminder of why we cannot stay silent about these injustices. No one should have to live in fear or face such cruelty.
Let this day move us to action. To challenge harmful norms, speak up for those who can’t, and fight for a world where everyone can live without fear.
Help us share our message far and wide to help victims and survivors to speak out 🙏
Together, we can break the silence. Together, we can create lasting change 🙏🙏
Anyone wishing to support True Honour please get in touch with us.
Sarbjit Athwal
