In May, a powerful and thought-provoking play debuted in Drenas, serving as a call for social awareness and reflection. “The Shirt of Freedom,” a production by the Center for Promotion of Women’s Rights (CPWR), began its tour with a strong message: support saves lives. 

Written by playwright Arian Krasniqi and performed by the renowned actresses Safete Rogova, Kumrije Hoxha, and Igballe Qena, the play sensitively and realistically addresses a topic as painful as it is crucial—domestic violence and how society can (and should) respond. 

After Drenas, the tour continued to Mitrovica, Drenas, Rahovec, and Dragash. During June, audiences had the opportunity to see it in Podujevo, Lipjan, and Pristina. 

This is just the beginning, as the play is scheduled to be performed in other cities throughout the year, in collaboration with local organizations and communities. For instance, in September, the play will be staged in Kline and Obiliq. 

Three Women – Three Stories Reflecting Reality 

At the heart of the play are three women, each representing a common voice in our communities: 

The Mother (Safete Rogova) is a figure of support and courage. She represents the parent who chooses not to remain silent, empowering her daughter to build a life free from fear and violence. 

The Mother-in-Law (Kumrije Hoxha) starts as a critical voice, blaming the victim, but undergoes a journey of reflection and change. Her apology to her daughter-in-law is a pivotal moment that reveals the power of personal transformation. 

The Neighbor (Igballe Qena) is a psychologist and mediator who brings the role of the community to the stage. She urges the audience not to be passive, emphasizing that violence is not a private problem but a societal one that demands action and reporting.