Unsung Heroines: BUHC Highlights Women’s Contributions in Shaping History
On December 15, 2024, the BracU History Club conducted the seminar “An Inclusive Exploration of Women’s Contributions Throughout Bangladesh’s History” at Lecture Theatre 9C-16T. The speakers of this thought-provoking event was renowned journalist, researcher, and adjunct faculty of BracU Professor Afsan Chowdhury, Associate Professor of Anthropology Dr. Seuty Sabur, and Chief of Staff at Tech Global Institue, Fowzia Afroz.
The event focused on reshaping students’ perceptions of significant women’s contributions in 1971 history and beyond. Women actively participated as freedom fighters and supporters, but their stories, struggles, and sacrifices were often overlooked. The event was also held to honor our victory day and pay tribute to Sir Fazle Hasan Abed’s work, which signifies his belief that women are change agents.
Professor Seuty shared about the 1971 history she grew up with in Saidpur. The memory of her grandmother, mother & other noteworthy women. She expressed the crucial challenges women endured. The loss or brutal killings of their husbands were mentioned. Whether they are of different religions, they raised their children strong-handedly. Professor Afsan shared the horrific instances of post-war. He witnessed freedom fighters looting and how the women were terrified to give shelter. Apart from women’s rape cases, there are significant cases of contributions that are unarticulated. He emphasized women’s bold steps to secure their families. Four heart-rending video clips were shown, unacclaimed women retelling their 1971 experiences and survival journey.
Fowzia recounted her journey with her interviewee, Halima Parvin. She fought against the Pakistani army with guns. Despite being a freedom fighter, it took 45 years to gain recognition. She addressed the necessity of expanding and archiving social history. Booklets were provided to enlighten students about the topic. Sticky notes were given to share students’ views and engage with their thoughts. A student of the ENH department, Maeesha Farzana, stated, “We truly need to perceive history from a diverse outlook. And question the ignorance of women in history”.
The session ended with remarks from the advisor of BUHC and Senior Lecturer of ENH, Salma Khan. She discussed the political and economic factors behind the lack of recognition for these women. One of BUHC’s founders, Seetun Mahyan, says, “When we think about the Liberation War, a male freedom fighter usually comes to our mind. However, there are countless unrecognized contributions of women who had long-lasting impacts. One should always recall them.”
