Arts Professionals Demand US Recognition of Afghan Cultural Workers as At-Risk for Evacuation

Over 350 professionals in the arts have penned an open letter calling on the U.S. government to recognize Afghan cultural workers as at-risk individuals who should be evacuated. These artists, filmmakers, performers, and writers are facing severe threats under Taliban rule, similar to those experienced by journalists and activists who supported the U.S. Notable figures like Claire Bishop and Coco Fusco are among the signatories. The letter points out that these cultural creators were already in danger even before the Taliban regained power, often with backing from the U.S. It urges the government to lift Afghan refugee quotas, halt deportations, and keep Kabul airport operational for protected flights, emphasizing that the Taliban's power threatens Afghanistan's rich cultural legacy.