Photo: © Alejandro Chicheri/WFP

To many in the West, the fall of the Taliban meant that the people of Afghanistan could once again enjoy their freedom. Images flashed across our televisions of men shaving their beards, people listening to music, and children joyfully flying kites high above war-torn Kabul.

The most popular image was that of women cautiously lifting the veils of the once mandatory burqa to see for themselves the promise of a new Afghanistan. Although seen by the Western world as an icon of Taliban oppression, the burqa remains a common sight in Afghanistan, especially in rural areas. Yet it is now a personal choice, not a mandate.

And although some women continue to wear the burqa, all women across the country are being given the opportunity to step out of the shadows to play vibrant and significant roles in the rebuilding of their beloved country.

The United States has long recognized the essential role women play in the development of their countries. When the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) returned to Afghanistan in January 2002, its mission was clear: to rebuild what had been lost, restore what had been damaged, and put the country on the path to a peaceful and prosperous future. Most importantly, USAID recognizes the importance of including women in all aspects of the country's development- from ensuring the health of their own families to ensuring the good governance of their nation.

This exhibit mirrors the roles women play throughout Afghan society: at home, in school, at work, and in leadership. It tells the story of their lives today - out of the shadows - as they work to build a better life for themselves, their families, and their country.

We salute the strength and spirit of the women of Afghanistan.