On June 22, 2024, the Iranian Academic Association organized a compelling exhibition in Manchester City Centre to express solidarity with the Iranian people, particularly women and girls, and to protest against the Iranian regime’s human rights violations. The exhibition was a powerful display of support for Iran’s ongoing uprising, political prisoners, and opposition to recent executions.
The event featured a series of impactful displays, including photographs and personal testimonies that highlighted the courage and resilience of Iranian protestors. One of the key sections focused on political prisoners, providing detailed accounts of their experiences and the harsh conditions they endure. Attendees were encouraged to participate by writing letters of support and signing petitions demanding the release of these prisoners.
A significant aspect of the exhibition was the call for the UK government to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. Prominent academics, human rights activists, and speakers at the event emphasized the IRGC’s role in sustaining violence and repression within Iran and in the broader region. They argued that such a designation would send a strong message of condemnation and align the UK with the international community’s efforts to hold the Iranian regime accountable.
The exhibition attracted a diverse crowd, including students, academics, activists, and concerned citizens, all united in their call for justice and human rights. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and determination, reflecting the participants’ commitment to advocating for change in Iran.
In summary, the Manchester City Centre exhibition was a significant demonstration of solidarity with the Iranian people. It successfully raised awareness about the regime’s abuses, garnered support for political prisoners, and reinforced the campaign to have the IRGC designated as a terrorist organization. The event underscored the importance of international solidarity in the fight for human rights and justice in Iran.