Pakistani model and social media star, Qandeel Baloch was murdered by her own brother on Saturday, July 16. Of course, any murder is completely devastating and heartbreaking. You try to understand the possible motives behind it, the reason the murderer could be so angry they chose to do something so inhumane. What makes the murder of this young woman even more horrific, other than it just being done by her own brother, is the reason he did it.
Qandeel was an Internet sensation, one of the most-searched names in Pakistan because she stood out. She was very controversial, she posted things such as photos and videos that would be considered offensive and inappropriate in Pakistani culture, due to the extreme inequality of the sexes. Qandeel was an extremely important force for women, those who want to be treated equally in a male dominated society. She spoke out on these issues and inspired other women to feel the same way she did. Why should she be censored, but if a man does the same it would not be considered racy or controversial at all? She was just another woman who wanted social equality, she was happy and expressive in her own body and for that, she lost her life.
"Thank you my believers and supporters for understanding the message I try to convey through my bold posts and videos. It’s time to bring a change because the world is changing. let’s open our minds and live in present."
This issue is extremely important and should be discussed everywhere. Qandeel was killed by her own blood, her own brother. The murder was described as an "honor killing" because her brother could not handle how his sister chose to be bold and brave, he couldn't stand how she chose to represent herself and her body. So, he murdered her. Normal, right? Absolutely not.
This is what brings us to the important issue, the issue of violence and equality. This exact event shows us how certain male aspects and views reflect violence and murder, how men truly will never believe or accept equality between them and women. This is real, Qandeel's murder and the acts of "honor killings" seem to be overlooked as an act of malicious murder because of the reasoning. Murdered by her very own brother, and there is a chance that he will walk without any punishment. Equality is so important, and Qandeel will always be remembered as a brave, strong woman. One that fought for her rights and the rights of other women in Pakistan.
Rest in peace to a true angel.
