In Solidarity with Iran
GEO stands in solidarity with the people of Iran who are facing extreme state-sanctioned violence from the Islamic Republic government, the use of military grade weapons, and massacres which have, as of this writing, resulted in an estimated 30,000 killed and many more wounded including people who have been permanently blinded.
Among the victims are many children. There are also reports of chemical gas being used against civilians as a tool of repression. The current death toll and scale of violence is hard to know due to the Iranian government’s media and internet blackouts (400+ hours at time of writing) that restrict communication with people in Iran. We mourn those who have been killed and offer our condolences to their loved ones. We stand in solidarity with the people of Iran and their clear demands for free elections, democracy, and self-determination, dignity, and respect, which are impossible under theocracy and autocracy.
We stand with graduate workers at UIUC from Iran, and encourage affected Iranian GEO members to reach out to GEO’s Solidarity Committee should they need any support from their union. We also call on the university to provide meaningful support to Iranian workers and students.
Given the media and internet black outs in Iran, as well as a lack of media attention in the United States, members of the GEO Solidarity Committee, in consultation with Iranian graduate students, have compiled an incomplete set of action items and resources for learning more about the protests in Iran. We encourage readers to verify sources they come across, as Iranian graduate students warn of regime and other lobbyists who are known to spread disinformation about Iran and grassroots organizing.
Social media to follow
Instagram:
- @nufdiran
- @iamnazaninnour
- @nazaninboniadi
- @mihan.media
- @iranrights
- @centerforhumanrights
- @chelseahartisme
- @iranlovers.to
- @netblocks
Calls to community
We encourage our members to ask their Iranian colleagues if they need support in these times. Support can come in many forms, whether that is checking in, offering material support, or giving space and grace.