As we approach the elections in the United States, as a woman who has lived under the oppressive regime of a dictatorship in Iran, I carry with me the heavy burden of memories that are etched into my very being. In a country where freedom is but a faraway dream and equality an illusion, the day-to-day struggle for basic human rights becomes a part of life. The suffocating atmosphere of fear and repression stifles not only individual expression but also the collective spirit of a nation yearning for change. My journey from Iran to a land where democracy flourishes has opened my eyes to the stark contrasts between oppression and freedom, igniting within me a passionate advocacy for democracy in my homeland.

Living in Iran meant navigating through an intricate web of restrictions that dictated every aspect of life. From censorship in the media to limitations on personal freedoms, the regime’s iron grip left little room for dissent or individuality. The fear of persecution loomed large. Women faced systemic discrimination, minorities were marginalized, and dissenters were silenced. This environment fostered a culture of compliance and despair, where hope seemed like an unattainable luxury.

In such conditions, I often found myself questioning my identity and purpose. The longing for freedom was palpable; it was a silent scream echoing within me and countless others who dared to dream of a better future. Yet, amidst this darkness, there remained an unyielding spirit among many Iranians—a desire for change that could not be extinguished.

When I finally left Iran, I stepped into a world that was both exhilarating and overwhelming. Experiencing democracy first hand was like emerging from a long tunnel into bright sunlight after years spent in shadows. The ability to express myself freely without fear of retribution was liberating; I could voice my opinions openly and engage in discussions about governance without looking over my shoulder.

I witnessed how people took their democratic rights for granted—voting, protesting peacefully, and advocating for their beliefs were all part of everyday life here. It became painfully clear how much we had lost back home; while others celebrated their freedoms, we mourned our absence from such joys. This realization fueled my determination to advocate for democracy not just as an abstract concept but as an essential right that every individual deserves.

Having gone through these experiences, I joined an organization called “Voice of Iran,” which believes in democracy and human rights for the Iranian people. We strongly believe that every nation should have the opportunity to flourish in the light of democracy—where voices are heard and rights are protected, so people can live without fear.

We are going to rally in Downtown Bellevue on the 15th of September to pay respect for the death of Mahsa Amini—a girl brutally murdered at the hands of morality police in Iran for improper hijab. In an age where stories make and break movements, this is a story that speaks so deeply to each one of us. It reminds us that this struggle isn’t about political systems; our struggle is for humanity. We will arise to echo, as one voice, to the world that Iranians need democracy just like everyone else.

On the eve of this historic day, I call upon all—regardless of nationality—to ponder over what democracy means to people in their lives. It may be easy to take the freedoms for granted when they are woven into a fabric of daily existence; nonetheless, it is very important to remember that many around the globe still fight tirelessly for these very rights.

Let us unite in our common responsibility for the defense of democracy, justice, and equality—not just for ourselves but also for those whom tyranny has silenced. We, united in this cause, can say: every nation is entitled to democracy and freedom.