Honor, My Foot!

This year Qandeel Balach

Was strangled by none other

Than a family member:

Her very uptight brother.

 

The young woman died--

As reported in the news--

Because she defied traditions

And maintained liberal views.

 

Having received death threats,

She didn't hesitate

To say she wanted to flee.

Sadly, now it's too late.

 

Her death was an "honor killing."

In Pakistan they say

That such killings occur

Almost every day.

 

The killers are often a relative.

Based on an ancient decree,

The family can forgive them,

And so they usually walk free.

 

Pakistani women

Live in a country that lacks

The will to stop such murders

And grisly acid attacks.

 

"Honor killings" they call them!

They more resemble insanity.

The absurd practice brings

Dishonor to humanity.

 

(7-16-16)