September 4, 2024. 🎓 The panel "Imagining and Reimagining Afghanistan" took place as a pivotal academic event that explored two major themes related to the representation of Afghanistan. The focus of the panel was a critical analysis of how colonial narratives have historically shaped and continue to influence the literature surrounding Afghanistan, perpetuating stereotypes, biases, and misconceptions. Panelists discussed the impact of these colonial frameworks on global and local discourse, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of these misrepresentations.
The panelists emphasized on using authentic, indigenous perspectives that reflect the lived experiences and visions of the Afghan people. The panel sought to offer a multidimensional view of Afghanistan, challenging simplistic and stereotypical depictions that often dominate mainstream representations. By presenting these nuanced perspectives, the panel aimed to highlight Afghanistan’s agency and move beyond reductive narratives. 🌍✊
This event brought together scholars, activists, and experts, sparking meaningful conversations about the ways Afghanistan is imagined in both academic and public spheres. The discussions offered fresh insights into the country's rich and complex history, while emphasizing the importance of reclaiming its narrative through more diverse and inclusive lenses. 🗣️📚
Panelists:
🎤 Dr. Bashir Mobasher (Moderator): Lecturer of Law, Political Science, and Sociology at American University, New York University, and the American University of Afghanistan, as well as the President of ALPA. His recent book, Constitutional Law and the Politics of Ethnic Accommodation (2023), explores constitutionalism and ethnic relations in Afghanistan.
📘 Dr. Anila Daulatzai: A political and medical anthropologist, currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of California, Berkeley. Her upcoming book, War and What Remains: Everyday Life in Contemporary Kabul, Afghanistan, offers insights into the realities of modern Afghanistan.
📚 Dr. Benjamin Hopkins: Senior Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor of History & International Relations at George Washington University. His recent work, The War that Destroyed America: Afghanistan’s Coming Bill, published in Critical Asian Studies (2021), critically analyzes the consequences of the war in Afghanistan.
📖 Dr. Michael Barry: A historian at the American University of Afghanistan, Barry's recent publication, Le Cri Afghan (2021), explores the country’s struggles and resistance.
📰 Dr. Omar Sharifi: Assistant Professor of Social Sciences and Humanities at the American University of Afghanistan, Sharifi co-authored Hail Mary of Power Sharing in Afghanistan with Michael O’Hanlon, published in The National Interest (2021).
The panel underscored the importance of challenging existing narratives and promoting a more comprehensive understanding of Afghanistan. 🕊️ By bringing together such esteemed scholars, the session was a significant step towards reshaping the discourse on Afghanistan’s past, present, and future.
Comments