Two-Time Academy Award Winner Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s SOC Films is proud to announce the launch of its latest campaign, “Facets of Hate Speech.”
This groundbreaking initiative features a YouTube series of five films, aiming to spark a new dialogue around the rising concerns of the Pakistani community regarding hate speech. The series will also shed light on the work of individuals who are addressing one of the greatest crises of our times.
The films feature activists, experts, and officials commenting on serious situations. This series aims to challenge social norms and change the narrative on topics that have been deemed too taboo to speak on.
“This campaign is a crucial step in confronting the grave threat of hate speech which has deeply woven itself into the fabric of Pakistani society—an alarming reality that challenges the future we envision for our country. Hate speech fuels intolerance, discrimination, and violence. It silences dissent, undermines human rights, and jeopardizes the very foundation of a just and equitable society. Through this series, we aim to give voice to the victims of hate speech, amplify the voices of those working tirelessly to combat it, and inspire action for a more inclusive, and tolerant Pakistan.” said Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.
The five-part series explores the following critical facets of hate speech:
1. “Haibatnaak Surat-e-Haal (State of Dread)” – Cyber Harassment
This film delves into the disturbing rise of cyber harassment in Pakistan, focusing on its devastating impact on women and the urgent need for stronger legal protections and increased online safety measures. It features the poignant case of Naila Rind, a young woman tragically driven to suicide by online harassment, and explore the experiences of other victims, activists, and legal experts. [Releasing 13th January 2025]
2. “Azaadi (Liberation)” – Aurat March
This film examines the fierce backlash faced by the Aurat March, a powerful women’s rights movement in Pakistan. It analyses the targeted attacks against the march, revealing the forces that try to silence dissent and the unwavering resilience of the women who refuse to be silenced. Prominent feminist activists and scholars share their insights on the challenges faced by women’s rights movements in a climate of increasing polarization. [Releasing 14th January 2025]
3. “Insaaf Ki Qeemat (The Price of Justice)” – Rashid Rehman
This film sheds light on the perilous landscape surrounding blasphemy laws in Pakistan, focusing on the tragic case of Rashid Rehman, a lawyer murdered for defending an individual accused of blasphemy. It explores the immense personal, legal, and societal challenges faced by defense lawyers in such sensitive cases and highlight the urgent need for reforms to protect human rights defenders. [Releasing 15th January 2025]
4. “Shanakht Ka Muqadma (Trial For Identity)” – Transgenders
This film examines the surge in hate speech directed at Pakistan’s transgender community following the landmark Transgender Persons Act of 2018. It exposes the targeted smear campaigns, fueled by misinformation and disinformation, that have sought to undermine the rights and dignity of transgender individuals. The film features the voices of transgender activists, human rights defenders, and legal experts who are working to combat discrimination and ensure the full inclusion of transgender people in Pakistani society. [Releasing 16th January 2025]
5. “Jungle ka Qanoon (Lawlessness)” – Mob Violence
This film investigates the disturbing phenomenon of mob violence in Pakistan, examining the intricate dynamics of mob psychology and the devastating consequences of unchecked hatred. It delves into the tragic case of Priyantha Kumara, a Sri Lankan factory manager who was brutally lynched by a mob in Sialkot, and explore the root causes of this horrific incident, including the role of hate speech in inciting violence. [Releasing 17th January 2025]
Catch the trailer here:
In a time when dialogue and understanding are crucial, SOC Films’ Facets of Hate Speech stands as a bold and transformative initiative, challenging societal norms and fostering meaningful conversations. By amplifying the voices of those tackling the pressing issue of hate speech, this series not only highlights the gravity of the problem but also inspires collective action to create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Through these films, SOC Films continues to pave the way for change, urging viewers to rethink prejudices and embrace the power of dialogue in combating one of the most critical crises of our era.
