The Interpreters
So today's blog isn't about coffee - but I met the person who has made these films and wrote these books, through coffee. Yes, he is passionate about coffee, but he is also fiercely passionate about uncovering social and political topics that no one else will - in a raw and ballsy, but intelligent way.
My friend Ben Anderson has this week just released his new e-book and films via Vicenews.com: The Interpreters. It is a compelling, personal and brave.
It is told through the words and experience of brave Afghan interpreters, Army Veterans and of course Ben's narration and summation.
The stories told are sad, unfair and unjust. Yet I found myself conflicted with initial perceptions and prejudices I had, making me wonder where this has come from. I guess it comes from a bit of naivety, and I'd say a lot of bias media exposure. So to read material like this is eye-opening and insightful.
I cried reading parts of it.
The sad thing is that many Afghan interpreters were working for the Americans because they genuinely believed and hoped that peace would be bought to their country and that in return for their service to the US they would be granted visas to the United States.
These testimonies show how America has severely unfulfilled their end of the bargain. Severely.
One part I particularly resonated with was US Army Veteran and former CIA officer, Matt Zeller when he said: "How are we remaining loyal to those who have been loyal to us if we're not fulfilling our promise? …if you're telling me that I can say to them, "Hey, because of your service and support, we're going to bring you to America if necessary," then allow me to fulfil that promise. Because if you don't , then my word is worthless and why should anybody ever trust me again?".
I agree. If you don't have your word, you have nothing.
Ben Anderson has been nominated for and won various awards for his documentary film making and journalism - often going secretly to dangerous political zones. (Holidays in the Axis of Evil, Battle for Marjah)
He has written a fantastic book (No Worse Enemy), that I could not put down, detailing his experiences on the ground in Afganistan where he toured with the US and British marines. It is raw and honest.
Baring in mind that he is not US Marine trained, is testament to his stamina and determination to get the most honest and close account of the real situation, that we may ever get.
Download his latest films and e-book for free about the Afghan Interpreters who believed the Americans would succeed in Afghanistan and put everything on the line to help them.
Organisations recommended by Ben Anderson and VICEnews.com to support the efforts of those working on behalf of the interpreters:
NO ONE LEFT BEHIND
IRAQI REFUGEE ASSISTANCE PROJECT
refugeerights.org/support-the-work-of-irap