Iranians in Toronto unwavering in their support as protests continue around the world

It’s been 40 days since 22-year-old Mahsa Amini was murdered in Iran for improperly wearing her hijab, sparking protests around the world, including record-setting rallies here in Toronto, home to the second-largest Iranian diaspora in the world.

The time that has passed since those first protests has only strengthened the resolve of the community.

A powerful spoken word poem written and performed by Toronto author Parmida Barez is the latest piece of art inspiring change after it was shared widely across Canada and around the world.

“It’s an artist’s duty to reflect on the times, and whatever talents and gifts we all have we have to mobilize. Now is the time,” Barez told CityNews.

Barez, like many other Iranians in Toronto, is still actively spreading the word about these protests more than a month later.

“I believe, and I will stand by this, that it’s our duty to amplify the voices of the Iranian people. There’s a great risk, and there’s great reward in anything and the time is now, and the climate is right,” she said.

The profound impact of these actions cannot be understated, as many will be unable to return to Iran after speaking out but say it’s a sacrifice they are more than willing to make.

“All of us are putting ourselves in danger, myself included. I won’t be able to go back to Iran, and I will fight until it’s a free country,” Barez told CityNews.

“Many Iranians have been so afraid to speak up because of the consequences for themselves and for their extended family, and they’ve been muted,” shared Barez. “So, these outpourings that we see are really 40 years of being muted, 40 years of anger, resentment, and there’s this sense of camaraderie that’s now begun in our communities, and we can feel it very deeply.”

It is the first counter-revolution led by women, and human rights groups have been reporting hundreds of deaths in the country as the regime cracks down on protesters, including children.

So with the community’s determination comes a profound sadness, one that can be felt at a popular Persian grocery store just north of Toronto:

“When you ask somebody, ‘Hey, how you doing?’ Most likely, the chances are going to be: ‘I’m not doing too well.’ My mind is with the young brave children and women that are out there risking their lives for basic freedom,” said Sam Fayaz, owner of Khorak Supermarket.

The rallies in Toronto have set records, with the largest held on Oct. 1, which over 50,000 people attended.

“These people want a regime change, and our message is loud and clear,” added Fayaz.

This message once again echoed through the streets of Toronto this past Saturday for the fourth consecutive weekend with people shouting, “Zan Zendeghi Azadi,” which translates to “Women, Life, Freedom.”

Activists say it’s just as important for non-Iranians to show their support, whether that’s through their social media pages, signing petitions or attending rallies themselves.

Another rally is scheduled in Toronto this weekend.