July Shaheed Smriti Foundation
In the wake of the people’s revolution of July/August 2024 that reshaped Bangladesh, hundreds of families are dealing with the unimaginable loss of their loved ones to, and thousands are struggling with serious injuries, including the loss of limbs and their ability to see.
The July Shaheed Smriti Foundation is a private foundation that was established by Chief Adviser and Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus to help the victims of state violence against protesters and bystanders to recover. It will support the loved ones left behind—parents, spouses, and children whose dreams were shattered in the pursuit of justice and freedom—and those who survived but face crippling medical bills.
This is not just a call for donations; it’s a call for solidarity. By contributing, you honor their sacrifice and ensure these people and families have the resources they need to rebuild their lives. Together, we can show the world that their courage was not in vain.
As a first step, the survivors of those who were killed will receive Tk. 500,000 (US$4,200), and those who were injured will receive Tk. 100,000 (US$840), or more if their needs merit additional compensation. Already $8.3 million has been mobilized and disbursements have begun, but more is needed to ensure that all who are eligible receive compensation.
Let us unite across borders and extend a helping hand to those who gave everything for a brighter tomorrow. Your support can bring hope and healing to those who need it most. See below for information about how you can contribute today and make an impact.
The Bravehearts of Bangladesh
There were an estimated 1,400 killed during the July-August 2024 revolution, and more than 20,000 were injured. Here are three of the victims that we seek to support.
The best known Bangladeshi martyr was Abu Sayed, a brilliant student in the northern district of Rangpur. His family had sacrificed for years to ensure his education, hoping he would succeed and support them. But his commitment to social justice led him to offer himself up as a sacrifice to the police by striking an iconic pose of outstretched arms. He was shot dead, but his martyrdom inspired a nation.
Nafisa Hossain Marwa was a dedicated female high school student whose father owned a small tea stall and invested all he could in her education. But she felt drawn to march to protest the autocratic regime and headed to Dhaka on August 5 to support the revolution. Minutes after talking to her father for the last time, Nafisa’s group was attacked by police and other forces, including the hated Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the Awami League. She was at the front of the march when gunfire erupted, and she was shot and killed.
35-year-old Dalil Uddin started his own small-scale garment business after working in the industry. On August 5, Dalil joined a protest led by students. Police fired indiscriminately at the crowd, and one of their bullets struck Dalil near his right ear, exiting through his mouth. The impact shattered his teeth, gums, and tongue. Since then, Dalil has been unable to eat solid food or speak. His family has spent over Tk. 300,000 (US$2,500) on Dalil’s treatment as of early November.
Sabbir, a university student in Rajshahi whose family's economic situation forces him to work 10 hours per day, six days a week even while studying. On July 30, Sabbir became yet another victim of violence when members of Chhatra League severely beat and robbed him. He received basic medical care and returned home, where he was completely bedridden for 10 days. To meet the medical expenses, he and his pregnant wife have had to deplete their savings and go into debt completely. Because he could not take end of year exams, he lost all credit for his studies in 2024 and will have to start over in 2025.
Learn more about the martyrs and the injured
How You Can Help
Millions of people around the world observed and cheered the revolution against the autocratic regime in Bangladesh, and many wondered what they could do to help. Now, there is a way. You can contribute any amount to the JSSF so that it can help the families of the martyrs and the surviving victims to recover, and in so doing help the birth of a new Bangladesh that has won its second independence. For Bangladeshi donors, visit the donation page of the JSSF website.
For international donors wishing to make an online donation, click here. For U.S. donors wishing to send a check, they can do the following: Send a check made out to Myriad USA and be sure to write “Friends of July Shaheed Smrity Foundation” in the memo section of the check. Mail it to Myriad USA, 551 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2400, New York, NY 10176.
All donations from U.S. residents are tax deductible to the full extent of the law, and they will be acknowledged with a tax receipt from our partner, Myriad USA. In the weeks ahead, donations from Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong are also expected to be tax deductible.
Donate today and make a difference that echoes far beyond boundaries!