RED LIPS w/Lori Butierries

Not for kisses,
but for battle--
warpaint smeared on,
a silent vow of defiance.

A bold shade for fearless women,
standing unshaken,
turning symbol into strength.

Like a red flag warning of danger,
like fire refusing to be tamed,
red lips are not just beauty—
they are armor.

They are power.
They are revolution.

This poem was written in support of ‘Red for Afghanistan Women’ initiative, part of the Afghanistan Women’s Justice Movement. Photos are from contributors to the campaign shared in solidarity with the mission of gender equality in opposition of gender apartheid. 

On Instagram, follow Afghan Women’s Justice: @afghanwomensjustice
Learn more about the Afghanistan Women’s Justice Movement: af-wjm.org