Alone Tree Co.

11/23/2024

Farkhunda Malikzada: A Tragic Victim of Misogyny and Intolerance in Afghanistan

Farkhunda Malikzada was a 27-year-old Afghan woman who was brutally murdered by a mob in Kabul, Afghanistan, on March 20, 2015. She was a religious teacher and student of Islamic law, known for her piety and kindness. Her tragic death sparked widespread outrage and protests across Afghanistan, highlighting the country’s deep-seated problems with misogyny, intolerance, and lack of justice for women.

The Incident
Farkhunda was falsely accused of burning a Quran by a 60-year-old mullah, Zainuddin, at the Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque in Kabul. The accusation was made public, and a crowd gathered, attacking Farkhunda and beating her mercilessly. The mob then dragged her to the nearby Kabul River, ran her over with a car, and set her body on fire. The horrific incident was captured on video and widely shared on social media.

Aftermath
The initial trial and convictions of the attackers seemed like a victory for justice, but the appeals process was marred by irregularities and lack of transparency. The death sentences for four men were overturned, and they were instead sentenced to 20 years in prison. The caretaker of the mosque, Omran, was acquitted, despite evidence suggesting he had played a role in inciting the mob.

The case highlighted the endemic problems with Afghanistan’s judicial system, including corruption, lack of accountability, and bias against women. Farkhunda’s family, fearing reprisals, fled the country.

Legacy
Farkhunda’s death became a rallying cry for women’s rights activists in Afghanistan, who demanded justice and an end to the country’s patriarchal and misogynistic culture. Her memory continues to inspire protests and advocacy efforts, with many calling for greater protections for women and girls.

In 2016, a monument was inaugurated in her memory in front of the Kabul River, where her body was set on fire. The Solidarity Party of Afghanistan has also sponsored a memorial and continues to advocate for women’s rights and justice.

08/20/2022

Arts In Bloom is on full motion today. Take the tour and stop in and check out .harder and as for the first time in three years we are hosting an event with Maryam’s Brother (my husband) as he supports his sister who was left behind in Afghanistan.

08/09/2022

We are excited to announce that we are one of the hosts for Arts In Bloom Event coming up on Aug 20 & 21 at Blackbeard Small Engine & Repair. Our location will be featuring pottery from my mom .harder and the works of JJ’s sister Maryam . As per usual all proceeds for Maryam will go 100% to her. We look forward to seeing all the beautiful art displayed throughout town.

08/09/2022

It’s been sometime since I’ve updated Alone Tree Co. After Afghanistan fell I was desperate to fight to get my husband out including calling upon some high level politicians here in Canada who agreed. In the end, it was his LTC who was able to get him across the gate, and he underwent the SIV process for the USA. I am happy to say he is now in Canada and we have begun the long road of healing and learning to blend our lives together as one. Thank you for your support. But the journey is not finished. His sister and family still remain in Afghanistan and her art has become therapy for her especially during these trying times. Please continue to follow Alone Tree Co. as we help give her a voice and the people of Afghanistan.

02/05/2021

"A heart in mint condition is a heart that has not risked to love." Matt Armstrong

Here's another quote:
“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for another."
John 15:12‭-‬13

01/28/2021

Working on some plans with Maryam and how to promote her art from afar. If you have any ideas help a girl out, let me know. Maryam is a female artist in Afghanistan who is trying to promote her art about life in Afghanistan, to tell her story and the inspiration behind this venture. My jewelry sales help supplement Maryam's exposure and how we can help her reach her goals. Its a hobby that's becoming more exposed. We are still learning together and I love her excitement and the smile on her face when she is able to earn an income on her sales. Stay tuned for a little update from Maryam herself and how we power through these current struggles with covid. I have the exposure and means and she has the talent and the heart, so we find a way to learn about each other's cultures through art.

01/12/2021

One of my favourite groupings. Back in the studio making jewelry again.

12/16/2020

Some of my pieces for sale. Handmade. Hand sculpted.

This weekend at the Artisan Shop here in Fraser Lake. Shop local.

Hours of operation are:
FRIDAY 3-8 ish (to accommodate for Santa parade)
SATURDAY 10-3
SUNDAY 1-4

12/05/2020

12/05/2020

Here at the Marketplace, according to provincial guidelines we require masks to be worn until further notice.

Please take take notice of my earnings 😝 leather with rabbit fur salvaged from an old fur coat I was able to apprehend from a grandma.

12/05/2020

Fraser Lake Marketplace is a retail Store located in the old Par3 Sports building. Our hours of operation are as follows;
FRI 3-7 PM
SAT 10-4 PM
SUN 1-5 PM

12/05/2020

Some new pieces here at Alone Tree Co. 18" beaded necklace, made with Tiger eye and gold leaf dipped bone. Leather dangle earrings with rabbit fur salvaged from an old coat.