Labour MP Naz Shah has opened up about her family's harrowing past in her new memoir, revealing how her mother killed the man who abused her. In an interview, Shah reflects on the concept of 'izzat', or honour, within the South Asian community, arguing that society should reframe perspectives on victims of domestic abuse. She emphasizes that her mother's struggles and actions should be viewed through the lens of victimhood rather than condemnation.

Shah shares poignant memories from her childhood, recounting her father's abandonment and the subsequent abuse her mother suffered from a man she referred to as 'uncle'. This personal narrative underscores the deep-seated issues surrounding domestic violence and the societal attitudes that perpetuate victim-blaming. Shah's plea to 'flip the shame' aims to address the systemic failures that often silence survivors and stigmatize their experiences.

By bringing her mother's story to the forefront, Shah hopes to spark conversations around the need for a cultural shift regarding honour and the treatment of women. The memoir highlights the resilience of survivors while calling for greater awareness and support systems to protect victims of abuse. As discussions about honour-based violence gain traction, Shah's insight illuminates the urgent need for change within communities that uphold harmful traditions.