Have you ever been forced to follow the restrictions that apply to your body? Can disobeying the law lead to death?
Here in America we have the undeniable privilege of being able to choose who we are, what we believe and what we are protected by law, but this privilege blinds us to the bigger issues that surround us. But this exact issue is happening now in Iran.
At the moment, there are many women fighting for their rights against Iran’s mandatory hijab law on headscarves. , requires all women, even visitors, to wear the hijab correctly.
Since then, women across Iran have fought for this law and their freedom. Unfortunately, these once-peaceful protests recently turned violent following the death of Masha Amini, aged 22, on Sept. 16. She comes just days after being arrested by Iran’s “morality police” for failing to comply with discriminatory compulsory veil laws.
Iranian security forces are actively destroying these protests with large-scale violence that includes tear gas spraying, arrests and even firing live ammunition into crowds. Within the past three weeks, these protests have grown louder, with women chanting “death to the dictator” in the streets, despite the state crackdown.
In addition, at least 144 people have died, according to Amnesty International. More people were arrested, and on October 10, the Iranian Children’s Rights Association announced that at least 28 of her children had been murdered in recent weeks.
The root of the problem is not the hijab itself, but the strength of the religious symbol. Before the revolution, many Iranian women actively wore the hijab for various reasons, including tradition and religious expression.
The problem lies in the fact that they are either forced to wear the veil or punished for not wearing it.
“Unfortunately, this has made many people hate it,” said Iranian journalist Asay Amini. Unbearable and want their own rights.The police say they are there to advise, but in reality, every day, in every city in Iran, women’s bodies, their clothes, everything. I manage.”
Sadly, the hijab has become a symbol of oppression.
These demonstrations that are currently disrupting Iran are more than simple dress codes. These people are fighting for freedom and democracy, not just the hijab.
Furthermore, these discriminatory laws do not respect the different types of attire worn by different ethnic and religious groups in Iran. Many others are included. Each has its own traditional way of wearing the hijab.
After further research, I found that the problem facing the hijab is not a cultural one. When he was raised, he was given the same answer: this is Iranian culture, but it has passed the point of culture.
We need to discuss the laws and penalties being used. However, while this does not change the desire of those who practice their religion to wear the hijab, it does raise the issue of freedom. That said, no one should be forced to follow an impolite dress code.
This is the biggest feminist movement in Iranian history. Women and men are united in raising their voices and fighting for change. With Iran losing access to the internet, now is the time to make a change regarding these terrible deeds happening in the world around us. We have to find a way to help.
Whether it’s educating yourself and others on the topic, or donating to a trustworthy foundation, now is the time to act.
Madison Tyler of San Rafael is a student at Dominican University in California.
