As protesters for freedom in Iran persist, federal representatives should continue to push the United Nations’ investigative mechanism for crimes against humanity committed by Iran and demand the end of unlawful imprisonment and execution in Iran.
Orlando, FL – Representative Anna V. Eskamani (D-Orlando) and Senator Bobby Powell (D-West Palm Beach) have filed memorials in their respective chambers to condemn the barbaric oppression of the people of Iran and stand in support of the fight for freedom. If adopted, House Memorial 531 would be sent to the United States Congress and the President of the United States.
The protests in Iran began after the brutal murder of Mahsa “Jina” Amini by the morality police for not wearing her hijab correctly. According to the United States-based human rights monitor Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 527 people, including 71 children and 32 women, have been killed since demonstrations began in Iran on September 17th, 2022, and over 19,500 people have been arrested.
Since the protests began, the activism of millions worldwide has resulted in the Islamic Republic of Iran’s removal from the United Nations Women’s Commission, and an independent investigation has been launched by the United Nations into the ongoing deadly violence against protesters in Iran.
“As an Iranian-American, I am grateful for the showing of bipartisan support for the people of Iran. We must continue to work across the aisle to push our federal representatives and the Biden Administration to to stop executions within Iran and end unlawful arrests, to maintain momentum around the United Nation’s independent investigation of Iran’s gross human rights violations and to sanction members of both the Islamic Republic of Iran and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The Iranian people are demanding regime change and we must be their voice with the hope for a free Iran, where Women, Life, Freedom is not only a rallying cry, but a reality for all,” Representative Eskamani said.
As the fearless people of Iran continue to take to the streets, the call for unity among all Americans in support of the people of Iran should continue to be amplified.
“As a beacon for freedom across the world, the people of the United States have an obligation to stand up when the victims of oppression cry out for our help.” Added Senator Powell. “As Floridians, we join in echoing the calls by the Iranian people for liberty, the right to choose their own government, and the release of those who fought for these rights and are now imprisoned. I am proud to file this memorial alongside Representative Eskamani in support of the Iranian people. We look forward to their passage in our respective chambers.”
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