Protests in Iran Inspire Student Action

Ahead of today’s World Cup soccer match between Iran and the United States, Iranian state media called for the United States to be kicked out of the tournament in response to a social media post the U.S. Soccer Federation said was intended to show “support for the women in Iran fighting for basic human rights.”

The arrest and death in police custody of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini sparked a resistance movement in Iran that continues to rage in streets across the country. In over two months of protests, hundreds have been killed and thousands arrested.

To raise awareness of the situation in Iran, Davidson College’s Middle Eastern and North African Student Association (MENASA) hosted an on-campus event, titled “Standing with Iran.”

The program included an address by Silvi Toska, a Davidson College assistant professor of political science who focuses on social movements and revolution in the Middle East, and original works by Iranian musician Shahram Mazhari, who is also a professor of electronic media at York Technical College.

Women’s Rights Are Human Rights

Amini was detained for allegedly violating the Islamic Republic's strict dress code by incorrectly wearing her hijab. Following Amini’s death, protests escalated into calls for the overthrow of Iran’s theocracy.

Mazhari, who shared a repertoire of traditional Persian music during the program, also organized an October march in Charlotte, North Carolina, in support of freedom for people in Iran and Iranian women’s rights.

“For more than nine weeks, the Iranian Americans in Charlotte have been gathering to display their solidarity with the people of Iran who are fighting for democracy and equal rights,” Mazhari said. “The Iranians of Charlotte will continue to be the local voices of the revolution that is taking place in Iran.”

Another gathering is planned for 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 4, at Romare Bearden Park in Uptown Charlotte. 

MENASA is a student-run organization that focuses on addressing political and current event topics relating to all areas of the Middle East and north Africa.