Photo credit: the independent
An Olympic breakdancer from Afghanistan, Manizah Talash, has been disqualified from the breaking competition for wearing a cape on which “Free Afghan Women” was printed.
France 24 reports that Talash unveiled the top on Friday before the first duel of the whole competition against against India Sardjoe of the Netherlands.
The World DanceSport Federation said in a statement that, “Refugee athlete B-girl Talash…was disqualified for displaying a political slogan on her attire in violation of Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter.”
The rule states that, “no kind of demonstration or political, religious or social propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas.”
Talesh fled Afghanistan to Spain with her two brothers.
She said, “I didn’t leave Afghanistan because I’m afraid of the Taliban or because I can’t live in Afghanistan. I left Because I want to do what I can for the girls in Afghanistan, for my life, my future, for everyone.”
She had discovered breaking online when she was in Kabul. She then joined a local a local club where she was the only girl.
The troupe was forced to switch practice venues due to death threats. But she was determined to pursue her passion.
She told AFP in 2021 that, “I took the risk of becoming a target. I have fear in my heart but I won’t give up.”
