Afghan Olympic sprinter sends powerful message to Taliban on women's rights

For an Afghan sprinter, winning gold was never the primary goal. Despite finishing last in her Olympic 100-meter heat, her presence on the track in Paris sent a powerful message on women’s rights to the ruling Taliban. The sprinter displayed a handwritten note on her race bib, stating “Education. Sport. Our Rights.” She expressed her determination to fight for her land and spoke against the Taliban’s rule. Afghanistan, under Taliban control, is known for its repression of women’s rights, including limiting education and work opportunities. The sprinter’s participation in the Olympics symbolizes gender equality. The International Olympic Committee has prevented Taliban officials from attending the Paris Games. The sprinter, born to refugee parents, previously represented Afghanistan in the Rio and Tokyo Olympics. She currently resides in Australia for training purposes.