Trigger warning: This article deals with the topic of physical and verbal abuse. It may be distressing for some readers.
In Washington, Los Angeles, and Berlin. In these cities, thousands of people rallied against the current government of Iran. They did this in support of the Iranian protesters fighting for their lives and rights in this country.
Five weeks ago, an ongoing series of protests began to spread throughout Iran. They were sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in custody.
Amini passed away under the jurisdiction of the country’s morality police. This young woman was arrested by said force for allegedly wearing her headscarf too loosely. The morality police are known for enforcing Iran’s mandatory hijab law through physical, verbal, and humiliating abuse.
“Be scared. Be scared. We are one in this,” yelled Washington demonstrators while wearing the colours of the Iran flag: Green, white, and red.
In Los Angeles, many people called for the fall of Iran’s government. It’s worth noting that Los Angeles has the largest population of Iranians outside of Iran.
“We want freedom,” they demanded in unison.
Meanwhile, in Berlin, around 80,000 people have also marched in support of the Iran demonstrations. A lot of these folks in attendance were themselves Iranian.
“It’s breathtaking, it’s amazing. It’s the first time that so many people in our nation are united regardless of their political beliefs before revolution and after revolution. I am really proud,” said one protester.
Related: Gen Z Lead The Fight in Iran Protest
Related: What It’s Like to Be an Asylum Seeker or Refugee in Australia
What Is Currently Happening in Iran?
The aforementioned international rallies aren’t the only demonstrations against Iran’s regime that have recently happened. This is because protests in Iran itself have continued. On October 23, medics, teachers, university students, and schoolchildren across the country went on strike against the government’s regime.
Female students at Sharif University and Tehran Polytechnic University in Tehran, Iran, entered the male section of the dining hall in defiance of the school’s gender segregation rules and in protest for their freedom.
That same day, 130 Iranian doctors and neurosurgeons released a joint statement to the country’s security agencies. This statement called on them to “stop violence at all levels of society, especially in dealing with children and teenagers.”
How Many People Have Died During Iran’s Protests?
The Iran Human Rights organisation has recently reported that at least 215 people, including 27 children, have been killed in Iran’s protests.
Regarding this situation, the Iran Human Rights’ Director, Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, said, “The reckless state violence which has even targeted children and prisoners, along with the false narratives presented by Islamic Republic officials, make it more crucial than ever for the international community to establish an independent mechanism under the supervision of the UN to investigate and hold the perpetrators of such gross human rights violations accountable.”
The Latch encourages anyone who is struggling and needs support to call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Both of these services provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7. You can also talk to someone from 1800RESPECT via online chat. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Read more stories from The Latch and subscribe to our email newsletter.