Historic Vancouver Event Honors Momena Qayumi, First Afghan Woman Removing Burqa
Historic Vancouver Gathering Celebrates Momena Qayumi, the First Afghan Woman to Remove the Burqa in Defiance
On January 21st, 2026, the world lost a remarkable woman whose legacy transcends borders and generations. Momena Qayumi, a nurse, midwife, and a fearless advocate for women’s freedom, passed away peacefully in Maple Ridge, Vancouver, at the age of 91. Her life story is an extraordinary tale of courage, compassion, and unyielding pursuit of liberty, which culminated in one of the most courageous acts of defiance in Afghanistan’s history: throwing off the burqa alongside five other heroic women nearly 70 years ago.
This historic act not only challenged oppressive norms but also ignited a movement that inspired generations of Afghan women and the global community alike. In this article, we celebrate Momena Qayumi’s inspiring life, her enduring impact on the Vancouver community, and her pivotal role as a beacon of freedom for Afghan women.
Early Life and Historical Context
Momena Qayumi was born into a society constrained by rigid traditional laws that severely restricted women’s rights and freedom in Afghanistan. In a time when the burqa symbolized enforced silence and invisibility for Afghan women, Momena dared to challenge the status quo.
Almost seven decades ago, alongside five other brave women, Momena publicly removed her burqa—the first known act of such defiance. This was not merely a symbolic gesture; it was a direct act of rebellion against the stringent restrictions imposed by the government and conservative societal norms.
The Danger and Defiance
What made Momena’s courage stand out was not only the audacity to unveil herself in public but her fearless disregard for the dangers involved. Unlike others who attempted but could not escape the watchful eye of government security and social backlash, Momena confronted the threats head-on.
“She was not afraid of the throwing stones, the danger of extreme ideologies, or what her family and community would say,” wrote her son Abe Nasser, an AI Specialist and author, in his 2013 book Ten Thousand Prayers which chronicles her life.
Her act catalyzed awareness about women’s rights in a society where freedom was not easily given but had to be taken.
A Life Dedicated to Compassion and Service
Momena’s courage in battle for freedom was only one dimension of her remarkable character. Despite enduring poverty herself, she devoted her life to caring for others. As a nurse and midwife, she brought hope and health to marginalized populations who desperately needed care but had little access to it.
Service in the Face of Hardship
Her work was never about recognition or status. She cared for the poor while enduring hardships of her own health and living conditions. Her resolve to serve others exemplified the depth of her kindness and compassion.
- She provided medical assistance even when she was unwell.
- Her home and heart were open to everyone—from influential families connected to kings and presidents to those who had nothing.
- Momena’s humility and inclusive warmth bridged social divides, creating lasting friendships across all walks of life.
Building Bridges: Momena in the Vancouver Community
Later in life, Momena settled in Vancouver, British Columbia, where she forged strong ties and became an integral part of the community. Her influence was far-reaching, touching countless lives.
A Legacy of Respect and Love
The grief felt by the Vancouver community upon her passing was a testament to the impact of her presence. Many recalled her wisdom, kindness, and openness.
- She was a respected elder who never stopped learning and sharing her knowledge and experience.
- Community members admired her honesty and integrity, qualities that made her a trusted friend and mentor.
- Her ability to connect heart-to-heart transcended cultural and geographic boundaries.
Her passing at 2:30 am on January 21st, 2026, surrounded by her grandchildren, symbolized the peaceful culmination of a life profoundly lived.
Ten Thousand Prayers: Preserving Her Story
Momena Qayumi’s remarkable journey was immortalized in the book Ten Thousand Prayers, published in 2013 by her son, Abe Nasser. This deeply personal work offers an intimate look at Momena’s life, struggles, and the indomitable spirit that defined her.
Key Themes from the Book
- The pursuit of freedom: A core message emphasizing that liberty must be fought for, not passively received.
- The power of kindness: Showcasing how compassion can fuel resilience and impact communities.
- Courage in adversity: Detailing her unique role as one of the first Afghan women to publicly defy oppressive norms.
Ten Thousand Prayers continues to inspire readers worldwide, spreading Momena’s message of hope and strength.
Courage and Freedom: The True Essence of Momena Qayumi
Momena’s life embodied the belief that freedom is a right worth struggling for at every stage. Her unveiling of the burqa was a bold rejection of the chains that suppressed Afghan women, but it was also a symbol of hope.
What Made Her Courage Unique?
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Fearlessness | Unmoved by threats, societal rejection, or physical danger. |
| Pioneering leadership | One of the first six women to remove the burqa publicly, breaking government and social barriers. |
| Moral clarity and honesty | Lived with integrity and authenticity throughout her life. |
| Enduring compassion | Helped others relentlessly, even in poverty and ill health. |
Her courage was not simply a momentary act but a lifelong stance, reflected in how she faced challenges from youth to her final days.
Last Days and Final Moments
Even during her last days in the hospital bed, Momena embodied the peace and strength consistent with her life choices.
- She was accompanied by her beloved grandchildren, Ghezal Faqirity and Morwa Hakimi, who lay beside her as she passed peacefully.
- This calm departure was fitting for a woman who had fought so hard for freedom and peace.
Her death was mourned globally, especially among the Afghan and Vancouver communities, who remembered her with love and pride.
Remembering a Trailblazer: Momena Qayumi’s Enduring Impact
Momena Qayumi’s life leaves an indelible mark on history—not only as a nurse or midwife but as a relentless freedom fighter and compassionate human being.
Why Momena Will Be Remembered
- Historical significance: One of the first Afghan women to publicly throw the burqa and claim their freedom.
- Model of bravery: Demonstrated unshakable courage under extreme ideological and social pressures.
- Humanitarian legacy: Dedicated her life to serving others, especially the marginalized and poor.
- Community pillar: Built lasting bonds with a diverse spectrum of people.
- Wisdom and mentorship: Continually engaged with the world, learning and sharing until her last days.
Her story is a powerful reminder that the quest for freedom is deeply personal but resonates with universal significance.
Conclusion
Momena Qayumi’s story is one of fearless defiance against oppression and compassionate dedication to humanity. As one of the first Afghan women to publicly remove her burqa near 70 years ago, her act was a groundbreaking assertion of freedom in a restrictive society. Yet, her impact went far beyond this single event.
Throughout her 91 years, Momena nurtured a life of service, kindness, and unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and justice. Her legacy continues to inspire Afghan women and all those who strive for equality and freedom worldwide. The historic gathering in Vancouver honoring her life stands as a tribute to a woman who embodied what it truly means to be courageous: not just to resist but to love and lift others even while facing personal hardship.
Momena Qayumi will forever be remembered as a courageous pioneer, a compassionate healer, and a profound contributor to both her local and global communities—a true hero whose prayers for freedom echo through the ages.
For those interested in exploring her life further, reading Ten Thousand Prayers by Abe Nasser offers an intimate and inspiring look into Momena’s unwavering spirit and enduring message.
