Okawa printing (https://www.ohkawa-inc.co.jp/) is a printing firm long standing in Yokohama. They have committed to sustainable printing, engaged in wide range of activities, not only saving energies and forest resources but also addressing the social problems. Last month, they started monthly screening program as one of such efforts (https://withgreenprinting.com/). 

Last Friday was the day for the program in February and we saw "Sonita", a documentary film about an Afghan girl, who struggled to become a rapper in extremely difficult situations. It was difficult because it was very common for Afghan families to marry off their daughters to a wealthy man, and her family wasn't an exception. It was difficult because it was common for Afghan families to sell off their daughters to a wealthy man, and her family was not an exception. 

Although Sonita was staying in Iran as a refugee, it was prohibited for women to sing in public in Iran. Her effort to express herself as a rapper undermined the situation; due to her infringement of Iranian law (women must not sing in public), the shelter that was providing assistance for refugees was forced to discontinue their support for Sonita. Please watch the movie to see what happened to her, then. 

I was very much impressed by the strength of her mind. It was visible in the story that her talent is so great and she cannot help but sing. I truly appreciate the opportunity provided by Okawa printing. It was so encouraging and inspirational.