- Exposing Hate Speech: Facets of Hate Speech by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is a five-part YouTube series highlighting the impact of hate speech in Pakistan, tackling cyber harassment, gender rights, blasphemy laws, transgender discrimination, and mob violence.
- Powerful Case Studies: Each episode explores real-life incidents, including the cyberbullying of Naila Rind, backlash against Aurat March, the murder of lawyer Rashid Rehman, attacks on the transgender community, and the lynching of Priyantha Kumara.
- Call for Change: Through survivor stories, expert insights, and legal perspectives, the series urges societal reflection, stronger protections, and reforms to combat hate speech and violence in Pakistan.
Renowned filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy has unveiled a compelling YouTube series titled “Facets of Hate Speech,” aiming to ignite crucial conversations about the pervasive issue of hate speech in Pakistan. This five-part series delves into various manifestations of hate speech, shedding light on its profound impact on society
Haibatnaak Surat-e-Haal (State of Dread) – Cyber Harassment
The inaugural episode addresses the alarming rise of cyber harassment, particularly targeting women. It highlights the tragic story of Naila Rind, a young woman who took her own life due to relentless online abuse. The film underscores the urgent need for robust legal protections and enhanced online safety measures to combat this growing menace.
Azaadi (Liberation) – Aurat March
The second installment explores the intense backlash against the Aurat March, a significant women’s rights movement in Pakistan. It delves into the challenges faced by activists and the societal forces attempting to suppress their voices. Through interviews with prominent feminists and scholars, the film showcases the resilience of women who continue to fight for their rights amidst increasing polarization.
Insaaf Ki Qeemat (The Price of Justice) – Rashid Rehman
This episode sheds light on the perilous environment surrounding blasphemy laws in Pakistan, focusing on the tragic case of Rashid Rehman, a lawyer murdered for defending an individual accused of blasphemy. The film discusses the immense personal, legal, and societal challenges faced by defense lawyers in such sensitive cases and emphasizes the urgent need for reforms to protect human rights defenders.
Shanakht Ka Muqadma (Trial for Identity) – Transgender Community
The fourth film examines the surge in hate speech directed at Pakistan’s transgender community following the landmark Transgender Persons Act of 2018. It exposes targeted smear campaigns fueled by misinformation, highlighting the struggles of transgender individuals. The narrative features voices of activists and legal experts advocating for the rights and inclusion of transgender people in society.
Jungle ka Qanoon (Lawlessness) – Mob Violence
The final episode investigates the disturbing phenomenon of mob violence in Pakistan, analyzing the tragic case of Priyantha Kumara, a Sri Lankan factory manager brutally lynched by a mob in Sialkot. The film explores the root causes of such horrific incidents, including the role of hate speech in inciting violence, and calls for societal introspection to prevent future tragedies.
Overall, “Facets of Hate Speech” is a thought-provoking series that challenges viewers to confront the harsh realities of hate speech in Pakistan. By amplifying the voices of victims and advocates, Obaid-Chinoy aims to foster awareness, inspire change, and pave the way for a more inclusive and tolerant society.
For those interested in exploring these pressing issues further, the series is available on SOC Films’ YouTube channel.
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