Protest against 'honour based' violence against women. Image: Southall Black Sisters
The ‘honour’ killing of Banaz Mahmod represents the tragic consequences of the failure of state and minority communities to tackle honour based violence. The solution, however, does not lie in prevention by communities alone, but also greater state action in supporting black feminist leadership, and ensuring protection and provision.
"I find it really hard to say how much her death has affected me. Words just do not say enough.. .. The last time I saw Banaz alive was in 2005 ... I wish with all my heart I had taken her with me in 2005 because she would then still be alive…I can honestly say there's not been one night without having nightmares about what has happened to her…My life will never be the same again. If there's one thing I could wish for it would be to have Banaz back. I miss her and love her.”
