Subverting the Taliban
An example is the Virginia-based Institute for Global Engagement (IGE), which started new outreach in Pakistan in 2005. This think tank's connection with the University of Science and Technology in Bannu has drawn local people into fresh conversation.
The Taliban has major influence in Bannu. But IGE president Chris Seiple says his organization is warmly received as it provides scholarships and forums to discuss how to apply one's faith in society. Seiple and IGE offer to help Pakistanis think through issues without ignoring his Christian faith and their Muslim faith. IGE also partners with Faith Friends, a new Pakistani organization including Christians, Muslims, and others, which advocates for greater religious freedom.
As Christians, we are called to tread carefully but not lightly in Pakistan. Our quiet efforts—which always include winsome evangelism—won't overthrow the Taliban immediately and uproot terrorism tomorrow. But they can subvert injustice and terror over time.
In an interview last year, a CNN reporter asked Malala Yousufzai how she would inspire others to be brave like her. "God will ask you on the Day of Judgment," she replied firmly, "'Where were you when your people were asking [for] you?' Your people need you. You should come and stand up for their rights."
A Fractured and Beautiful Faith
Streaming This Weekend, May 24, 2013
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John Holmes
One essential consideration for improving the schooling of girls is to ensure that there are good toilets at the school. Unless there is provision for privacy during the monthly period for older girls and women, at the least there will be serious pressure on the individual not to go to school/work for about 50 to 80 days a year. In India, this handicap to retain girls in school has been finally acknowledge by the sanitation managers/planners and there are plans to build toilets at all schools. Just one situation where male centric views impose additional burdens on women. Sanitary protection products are also needed, as well as skills for the village production of such.