The Women’s Rights Movement in Iran
March marks Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the immeasurable contributions of women past and present. In this post, we take a look at a particularly poignant struggle that's happening in Iran—a quest for freedoms which Iranian women are bravely leading against formidable challenges.
Women’s Rights in Iran
Looking at the recent history of women's rights in Iran shows true resilience and unyielding courage of women who advocate for the fundamental right to self-determination. The current era starting vividly with the Green Movement in 2009, women's active participation in these protests underscored their indispensable role in advocating for democratic reforms.
In 2006, the “One Million Signature Campaign” was a pivotal moment, converging secular and Islamist feminists in pursuit of equal rights, addressing discriminatory laws impacting marital age, inheritance, and maternal guardianship, among others. And though the topic of compulsory hijab was avoided then, it laid the groundwork of solidarity from which today's movement draws strength.
The 2009 Green Movement provided momentum, proving a watershed moment for women's political activism and visibility in Iran. This moment brought the grievances and aspirations of women into the global spotlight, showcasing their profound influence within the political sphere. Women were at the forefront, leading chants, organizing rallies, and using social media to draw international attention to their cause.
The movement transcended political grievances, becoming a platform for women to assert their rights and capabilities as equal participants in the quest for a democratic society. The visibility of women in the Green Movement challenged stereotypes and inspired a generation to continue fighting for women’s rights, making it an undeniable milestone in the history of women’s political activism in Iran. Their courage and leadership during this period laid the groundwork for current and future movements, empowering women across Iran to demand change and assert their right to participate fully in the political and social life of their country.
Women, Life, Freedom
Today, tragically punctuated by the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, we are witnessing another historic uprising. Despite the regime's harsh crackdown and the arrests of over 20,000 individuals, Iranian women and men alike continue to echo the movement's powerful slogan, "Woman, Life, Freedom", undeterred in their desire for change.
Mahnaz Parakand, a prominent lawyer and activist from Iran, perfectly captures the essence of the movement: "We need to make the slogan ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ come true in Iran and all over the world.”
One personal story that stands out is that of 28-year-old Sepideh Rashno, whose viral encounter on a public bus in July 2022 encapsulated the atmosphere of resistance in Iran. The subsequent televised 'apology', following her arrest, was intended to deter, but instead sparked a national outcry, fueling a movement poised to revamp societal structures.
Enforcing through Facial Recognition
The recent introduction of the Iranian government's efforts to harshly enforce the compulsory hijab through new technologies have not gone unnoticed. Many residents feel the watchful eye of Basij or their informants. It’s unfortunately not uncommon for women in Iran to have their picture taken and reported for not wearing the hijab correctly. While the political situation in Iran is incredibly dire, the courage of Iranian women and allies shines as a North Star of hope for change not just within the nation, but as inspiration worldwide.
Raising Awareness
This Women's History Month, we stand in solidarity with the women of Iran. We hear their voices and echo their calls for freedom and equality. It is a struggle we all must recognize and support, regardless of borders. The circumstances may be grim, but the resilience and determination of the Iranian women's rights movement stands as a reminder that while progress often comes at a heartbreakingly high cost, the call for freedom can never be silenced.
In honoring these courageous women, we must amplify their stories, share their messages, and ensure their fight is everyone's fight. Our role as feminists, human rights advocates, and global citizens is to carry the torch of awareness, to educate ourselves and others on these critical issues, and to provide whatever support we can to those fighting on the front lines for their fundamental human rights.
During this month of reflection and recognition, and indeed throughout the year, take a moment to learn more, to speak out, and to stand with the Iranian women as they pursue a most basic human desire—the freedom to live a life unbound by injustice.
References:
https://www.womanlifefreedom.today/
https://carnegieendowment.org/sada/90583
https://www.wired.com/story/iran-says-face-recognition-will-id-women-breaking-hijab-laws/
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/06/26/unveiling-resistance-struggle-womens-rights-iran