Iranians unite, marching for freedom in front of White House - Spectrum News 1

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WASHINGTON — Marching in front of what they see as the ultimate symbol of democracy, the White House, Iranian Americans continue to protest for regime change after the controversial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini sparked a global uprising, over one month ago.

What You Need To Know

Iranians continue to protest around the world for regime change, after the death of Mahsa Amini sparked a passionate uprising, initially led by and for women

Protesters said, now, the revolution is a pan national effort, for Iranians of all backgrounds seeking human rights

A recent protest in Washington D.C., in front of the White House, displayed a united front, reflecting Iran’s vast diversity of communities

One protester said he is marching not just for women’s rights, but also religious freedom, as he and his family continue to be a target of dangerous discrimination

But what first began as a women’s movement has now become a pan national effort for freedom, Iranians of all backgrounds, uniting, for change.

Afshin Rezai, an Iranian refugee and a member of the Baha’i community, says he’s optimistic.

“At least we can get their attention, or maybe some other nations,” Rezai emphasized as he pointed to the White House.

In Iran, internet shut downs have caused further suppression for protesters, many of whom have been killed for their activism. But the more the government cracks down, the more protesters — such as Iranian American Giselle Eatedali — said it emboldened them to speak out, with a slogan heard around the world.

“Zan, Zendagi, Azadi. Woman, Life, Freedom,” Eatedali exclaimed.

Besides women’s rights, protesters like Rezai are speaking out for religious freedom. He said his Baha’i community, among other minorities, such as Iran’s Jewish and Christian communities, have been targeted by the regime.

“Right after the revolution, they started discriminating against us," said Rezai. "No government jobs, no continued education after high school. Even, I remember, when I was 7 years old, they burned our house because they really wanted to convert us to Islam, but my grandfathers and my dad, they refused. As a result, they burned our house. I’ll never forget that night."