As Iranian people protest against a brutal regime, one woman in Southampton is playing her part in the revolution.
Shakiba Moghadam, 29, a Solent University lecturer, is raising awareness of the plight of Iranians against the Islamic Republic.
Hundreds of people have died during ongoing waves of protests against authorities.
Shakiba herself was exiled from her country of birth in 2019.
She and many others are now taking to the streets of Southampton to highlight what Iranians face.
'Connect with the community'
Shakiba and a group of Southampton-based Iranians hold a vigil and share information by the Bargate every Thursday to raise awareness of the ongoing revolution against the country’s government.
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For her, it’s important to draw attention to what is happening.
She said: “In Southampton, we are trying to be as active as possible, especially as there’s not much going on along the south coast in terms of raising awareness.
“We have a stall and hold a vigil at the Bargate every Thursday from 6.30pm to 8pm.
“After our first event on September 28, word got out and it has been great to connect with the Iranian community in Southampton.”
'Show solidarity'
The group has not only been interacting with that community but the wider city community too.
Shakiba said: “I have been really surprised that people have come up to us and asked lots of questions about what’s happening.
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“The revolution that’s happening in Iran is really historic and people in the city can be part of it and show solidarity and support for basic human rights and freedom.”
She added: “Doing this raises awareness and gives a voice to the people inside Iran, and it’s making people here realise that what we have is a privilege.
“The revolution in Iran is a fight for freedom, human rights, and women's rights.
“If anyone wants to help the Iranian community, please write to your MP and urge them to call on the Islamic Republic to stop executions, torture, false confessions, and sham trials.
"People can share or reach out to ask any questions on Twitter. My Twitter handle is @ShakibaMoghadam.
“We need everyone to be on the side of freedom and human rights.”
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