We stand in unwavering solidarity with journalist and activist Rafia Tamanna, who has once again shown immense strength in the face of violence, misogyny, and the persistent culture of victim-blaming.
After surviving yet another attack in public, Rafia was asked by a TV journalist: “What were you wearing that day, apa?”, a question steeped in the same patriarchal logic that continues to silence and endanger women in this country. In response, Rafia shared a photo of herself from that day, not for validation, but to expose the absurdity and cruelty of such questions.
“This isn’t my second life. Not my third, fourth, or fifth. As a woman in this country, I lost count long ago.” – Rafia Tamanna
This is not just a single incident. This is a reflection of what women and gender-diverse people face every day: being criminalized for existing, being violated for resisting, and being questioned for surviving. When Rafia was on the streets in July Student Protest 2024, dodging bullets, it wasn’t just activism, it was survival. What she faces now is a continuation of that same struggle.
We are especially moved by the courage of Rafia’s younger brother, a student in Class 10 who stood firm against harassment. His bravery shows that resistance knows no age, only conviction. We hope his bravery sparks more fires of resistance across this nation.
Rafia, you are not alone. Your voice echoes with the rage, grief, and hope of so many of us. Let them try to vilify you. Let them try to erase you. We will remember, we will archive, and we will resist: together!
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