CNN interviewed Balkhi, an afghan person who identifies as LGBTQ. Since the Taliban take over, Balkhi has feared for her life, and the life of of other LGBTQ citizens. She says, "The fear of arrest is apart of life now and I have so much stress I can't sleep." While no official statement has been made by the Taliban, One Taliban judge stated in July that the two punishments for homosexuality will be stoning or being crushed under a wall. CNN has been told in secret that LGBTQ citizens are hiding in basements and in single rooms, hoping for a way out. Balkhi stated that being a woman has already put a halt in her studies due to the Taliban takeover, but being a lesbian puts her in even greater danger. A gay man by the name of Hilal is looking for a way to escape. He says, "I want life and democracy."
-Anna Jensen
Link: https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/17/middleeast/afghanistan-lgbtq-evacuation-intl-hnk-dst/index.html
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