Human Rights Activist Jalila Haider receives Women of Courage Award

WASHINGTON: Human Rights Activist and lawyer Jalila Haider has won the US International Women of Courage Award among 11 other women from across the world.

Announcing awards, the United States department named Jalila Haider as “Iron Lady” of Balochistan who set up a non-profit organization to support the local communities in Balochistan.

The US said Jalila Haider fought against women’s violence in public spaces, adding that she fought for women’s rights and provided free counseling and legal services to poverty-affected women.

When I scroll to twitter , I see these tweets, the personal pain and grief. How can I pass on while ignoring such human tragedies of our times? Sorry @Farida_Baluch I am trying to become a good citizen of this country with eyes and mouth shut. How can I say #SaveRashidBaloch https://t.co/bTZzSrF7Vv

— Jalila Haider #StopHazaraGenocide (@Advjalila) February 22, 2020

It also stated that she is the first female legal representative of her Hazara community who led a peaceful hunger strike in the fight for the right to life for Hazaras.

The award recognizes women from around the globe who established exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality and women’s empowerment at the great personal danger.