Dear CODEPINKer,
 |
CODEPINK Peace Delegation in Iran 2005
|
The eyes and hearts of the world are still captivated by those who struggle for democracy in Iran. Hundreds of thousands of Iranians - led by large numbers of women - continue to fill the streets after today's official announcement proclaiming the election's legitimacy. In the midst of public unrest, outrage and violence perpetrated on demonstrators, CODEPINK continues to stand with the people of Iran at this time of political and social upheaval.
On June 20th, a young woman known as Neda - which means "voice" or "calling" in Persian - was shot in the head and died in the street. As video of her horrific death spread across the internet, Neda became the voice of the movement as people cried, "We are All Neda."
 To express your appreciation for the brave women and men in Iran who have been speaking out, sign our message to Nobel Peace Prize laureate and human rights advocate and lawyer, Shirin Ebadi, who has agreed to represent Neda's family. Send your message of solidarity for those who struggle for democacy here!
As appalled by the use of force and violence toward people protestors, we are also in awe of the strength and courage of those Iranian women who continue to stand up for freedom, equality, and justice. For decades, Iranian women have been at the forefront of the movement for greater rights. We are ever inspired by Shirin Ebadi's words, featured in our 2005 book Stop the Next War Now: Effective Responses to Violence & Terrorism,
"If one country sincerely wants to support democracy in another country that is under dictatorial rule, the only thing to do is to support the freedom fighters who stand for the democratic institutions of that country. Done this way, the sapling of democracy will bear the flower of freedom."
We are watching the situation in Iran very closely, and our hearts are with the brave Iranians who are taking to the streets and the internet to speak out for what they believe, as they stand up for freedom, equality, and justice.
In solidarity,
Blaine, Dana, Desiree, Farida, Gael, Gayle, Janet, Jean, Jodie, Medea, Nancy K, Nancy M, Paris, Rae and Stacy
|
