The world has come together in support of Mahsa Amini.
The 22-year-old Kurdish woman in Iran was taken into custody by the morality police for allegedly violating the strict Islamic dress code. But her trip to the police station for not wearing a hijab turned into a visit to the hospital, where she spent several days in the ICU before dying on September 16.
Iranian officials insisted that the young woman died due to a pre-existing condition and suffered a heart attack. Amini’s family allege that this is a lie and witnesses revealed to the young woman's loved ones that she was beaten by the police.
This has sparked an outcry not only in Iran but across the world, including in major cities like Madrid, Instanbul, Los Angeles and New York, where people are devastated by Amini's violent and unnecessary death. Sadly, the protests that have erupted throughout Iran have caused even more casualties, with upwards of about 80 people having lost their lives.
Iranian women are being targeted for standing in solidarity with Amini, journalists throughout the country are being detained for their coverage of the protests and the Iranian government has limited internet access across the country so as not to spread awareness of the issue.
Many believe it is an unjust attack on human rights, and the world won't stand by. Here are a few ways to help support the cause and honor Amini's memory.
For other ways to support women's rights, have a look at our edit on 20 iconic women who made history, learn about actionable ways to honor women 24/7, not just during Women's History Month, and don't forget to show your support for these brave Gen Z voices who are taking a stand against injustice.
How to support Iranian women following Mahsa Amini's death
1. Make a monetary contribution
There are a number of organizations that are working toward addressing human rights issues in Iran. You can submit donations to one of the following outlets:
- Abdorrahman Boroumand Center
- The Center for Human Rights in Iran
- Amnesty International
- Human Rights Activists News Agency
2. Stay active on social media
Protests and signs of solidarity have been reported across social media in the wake of Amini's death, and young women like her are leading the way. Have a look at hashtags such as #IranProtests and #MahsaAmini across platforms.
"What’s being asked for by people from Iran is purely awareness and amplification," said Nicolette Mason, an Iranian American fashion influencer told NBC News. "They want to show the government that they are supported globally. And so, in this moment, it feels really important."
3. Support internet freedom
The Iranian government has cut off internet access following the waves of protests, and the United States Department of Treasury stepped in and expanded Iran General License D-2, which helps provide Iranians with internet access.
The Tor Project, a nonprofit organization that fights for online privacy and freedom, is attempting to assist those in Iran circumvent internet restrictions and censorship with its VPN-like program, Snowflake (more below). Tor also accepts donations.
4. Follow journalists and activists
- Masih Alinejad: Iranian journalist and activist
- Habib Khan: Journalist, poet and founder of Afghan Peace Watch
- Middle East Matters: Community organization
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