Mothers of Chibok suffer in silence after a decade of waiting

In Nigeria, ten years have passed since the tragic abduction of over 200 schoolgirls by Boko Haram from the town of Chibok. Despite the passage of a decade, many of the women impacted by this event continue to struggle with feelings of pain and loss, while simultaneously demonstrating incredible resilience. The film 'Mothers of Chibok,' which premiered at DOC NYC, focuses on the mothers’ experiences and their fight for justice for their daughters, who remain missing or have returned traumatized by their captivity. The film portrays their journey, depicting scenes of daily life where women take active roles in their communities, emphasizing their efforts to educate the younger generation. Yet, the absence of men in these narratives raises questions about the overall impact of the kidnappings on familial and community structures. Education plays a crucial role in the film, underscoring its importance as both a means of empowerment and a pathway to a better future. Women are shown teaching in schools and assisting children with their studies, indicating a commitment to ensuring that the next generation does not suffer the same fate as their daughters. One poignant scene features a grandmother prioritizing school fees over personal comforts, reinforcing the significance of education in their struggle for a brighter future. However, many mothers continue to be left behind, missing essential mental health services to cope with their trauma, while some of the girls who manage to attend school receive limited therapeutic support. The film also highlights the strength and resilience that these mothers exhibit through their faith and communal bonds. They rely on spiritual convictions, many firmly believing that their daughters will return. This camaraderie among the mothers is essential to their healing process, as connection is a powerful tool against the loneliness and grief they endure. In spite of their advocacy for justice and a plea for global recognition of their plight, the mothers ponder the stark contrast in international reactions to claims of injustices in other regions. They reflect on how the world responded to the hostage situations faced by others compared to the lack of support for their cause, suggesting a deeper systemic neglect of human rights issues concerning women and girls in Nigeria, specifically. Telling the stories of the mothers is just the beginning towards raising awareness and pushing for a change that recognizes their struggles and advocates for their rights.