In a
world where activism is often viewed as optional, Sammi Deen Baloch
stands out as a shining example of unwavering commitment to a cause
she never chose – the fight against enforced disappearances in
Balochistan. At the tender age of 10, Sammi's life took a tragic turn
when her father was abducted. Since then, she has fearlessly marched
from Quetta to Islamabad, faced frigid protests, challenged the
state, and put her safety on the line, all in pursuit of justice and
closure for her family.
Now 25, Sammi has become a
household name for those who share her fate, offering hope in their
darkest hours. She gained national prominence as hundreds of Baloch
women, including Sammi, marched to Islamabad, bringing attention to
the widespread issue of extrajudicial killings and enforced
disappearances in Pakistan.
Sammi's activism goes beyond
the headlines and well-thought-out words; it is witnessed in her
actions as a true paladin. When Balochistan plunged into darkness and
despair, Sammi emerged as a beacon of light, challenging the status
quo and defying threats against her.
Her journey into
activism was not by choice but born out of the tragedy that befell
her family. Sammi's selflessness shines as she counsels families on
protesting, guides them to legal resources, and advocates for the
rights they've been denied.
For Sammi, women's rights are
central to the conversation on enforced disappearances. She
passionately addresses the impact on Baloch women, who endure a
living death when their loved ones are abducted, losing not only
family members but also stability and income sources.
Balochistan's
high maternal death rates and the plight of displaced Baloch women
remain overlooked by international women's rights organizations.
Sammi challenges this silence, inviting them to Balochistan to
understand ground realities and lend their support.
The
march to Islamabad became a powerful message on the plight of
enforced disappearances. Sammi, alongside other leaders, braved
police brutality and government apathy, staging a sit-in that lasted
weeks, demanding justice. Despite the disappointing response, the
support from the people of Balochistan was overwhelming, marking a
shift in mindset towards the activists.
Sammi's journey,
marked by resilience and determination, echoes the strength of Baloch
women throughout history. She emphasizes that Baloch women want
freedom for their men, not from them, highlighting the deep-rooted
sense of resistance in their blood.
The resistance will continue — “till the state doesn’t paralyse us” — because being silenced is not an option.
— Sammi Deen Baloch (@SammiBaluch) March 11, 2024
Thank you @yesits_Engineer for writing this detailed story.
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In the face of despair and nightly doubts, Sammi continues to sleep off hopelessness, waking up strengthened for the ongoing battle. Her extraordinary commitment to the cause makes her a beacon of inspiration and a symbol of resilience in Balochistan. Sammi Deen Baloch is not just an activist; she is a testament to the extraordinary strength that emerges from the depths of adversity.
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