A year after Mahsa Amini’s passing
what unfolded in the aftermath?
It has been a year since the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, a young Iranian woman whose life was cut short in circumstances that shook not only her nation but reverberated around the world. Her untimely passing serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights, especially for women, in Iran and highlights the importance of continuing the fight for justice and equality.
Amini’s story captured the world’s attention on September 16th of the previous year when she died in police custody. She had been arrested for participating in protests against Iran’s strict hijab laws, which require women to wear headscarves in public. The circumstances surrounding her death remain controversial and suspicious, with many questioning the official accounts provided by Iranian authorities. Her family and supporters allege that she was subjected to brutal treatment and abuse while in detention.
In the wake of her death, a wave of outrage and condemnation swept across social media platforms, as people from all corners of the globe expressed their solidarity with Amini and demanded justice for her. Her case became a symbol of the broader struggle for women’s rights in Iran, where women have long fought for the freedom to choose what they wear and how they express themselves.
Discussing this issue inevitably touches upon religious and patriarchal aspects. As a Muslim, I share the belief that our religion does not advocate harm towards others, and it places great importance on honoring women.
Rules that restrict women often originate from the excessively conservative beliefs of certain individuals, sometimes associated with a belief called “Sad al-dzari’ah”. The rationale centers on perceiving potential adverse consequences resulting from women’s presence in public spaces. Consequently, they advocate for women’s restriction, seclusion, or prohibition as a means to mitigate or eliminate these perceived negative societal impacts, even if it adversely affects women themselves. If unchecked, this line of thinking can perpetuate a cycle of restraining and limiting women in various ways.
The tragedy that befell Amini was exacerbated by unequal gender-based power dynamics rooted in a patriarchal culture. This culture places women, seen as the weaker party, in a subservient position where they can be treated at the discretion of the stronger party, often men. Iran’s dress code, for instance, is a means of control and submission, underscoring how true justice, in the form of freedom and security, remains elusive for vulnerable groups, particularly women and minorities.
Amini, a woman from the Kurdish minority in Iran, found herself defenseless against the moral police, laws, and legal authorities. She endured physical and verbal violence that ultimately resulted in her death, all because she was perceived to have violated the dress code, a law imposed by the conservative regime, purportedly rooted in Islamic law. However, it’s evident to many that this code contradicts actual Islamic values, which prioritize peace, justice, and equality.
Laws in a country, particularly those invoking religion, should be crafted to ensure the welfare of all its citizens, regardless of their backgrounds. Human welfare, in this context, involves safeguarding the fundamental rights ordained by a higher power, including the protection of beliefs, preservation of life, nurturing of the intellect, preservation of inherent rights and personal dignity, and safeguarding of property.
Humanitarian principles should serve as the foundation for all legal decisions and rules governing human life. Religion should not be a source of legal practices, rules, or unjust policies, faiunjust policies, discriminate or impose various forms of harshness. If such outcomes occur, it indicates a flawed interpretation of the religious principles in question.
One year after her death, significant changes have occurred. Society continues to evolve, protests persist, and the struggle endures. According to BBC.com, people in Tehran continue to deface government billboards and write slogans such as “#Mahsa” and “Women, Life, Freedom” — protest calls — on walls, primarily within the subway system. The government’s persistence is met with the enduring presence of slogans.
The struggle isn’t limited to women; it also has robust support from many men. This signifies the success of this movement. Men’s attitudes toward women are evolving, even in traditionally conservative regions of the country. A significant social revolution is in progress.
One year after her death, Amini’s legacy endures as a catalyst for change. Progress, however, has been slow and fraught with challenges. Nevertheless, Amini’s memory continues to inspire a new generation of activists who are committed to pushing for change through peaceful means, despite the risks they face.
Some women in Iran have dared to push the boundaries of the country’s restrictive dress code, choosing to wear their headscarves loosely or remove them altogether in public. These acts of defiance may seem small, but they represent significant steps toward greater personal freedom and gender equality.
Additionally, the international community’s continued attention to Iran’s human rights abuses, thanks in part to Amini’s case. It is hoped that this pressure will contribute to meaningful reforms in the future.
We are reminded that her sacrifice was not in vain. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for justice and equality, and it has ignited a flame of determination that continues to burn brightly in the hearts of those who believe in a better future for Iran and its women.
Let’s hope that Amini’s incident will cease to occur. The state, government, and authorities need to address conservatism, particularly when done in the name of religion. Our sincere hope is that there will be no more victims like her as a result of such incidents. Rest in peace.
In her memory, we must redouble our efforts to support the brave activists working tirelessly to advance the cause of human rights in Iran. Amini’s legacy challenges us to stand up for what is right, to speak out against injustice, and to work towards a world where every individual, regardless of their gender or nationality, can live a life of dignity, freedom, and equality.
One year after her death, she remains an enduring symbol of freedom for women.
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