You are currently browsing the daily archive for March 8th, 2008.
IRAN
Several thousand people gathered around Tehran University by 4pm Tehran ’s time to start an 8th March rally which was called by 8th March organising committee, endorsed by OWL. However, this gathering was prevented from commencing by the security forces. Islamic Republic had decided to stop any 8 March event to take place. The presence of massive force by Tehran University and in and around Daneshjoo Park, where the rally was to end, and also by Vali-e-asr square, a close by busy shopping area prevented any meetings to take place. Any person who tried to shout slogans was attacked and taken away. Eye witnesses have reported to OWL’s 8th March headquarters that around 25 people were arrested by Tehran University and Vali-e-asr square.
Some of the demonstrators then decided to move to another location. Around 6pm there was report of a large gathering in Mohseni square north of Tehran. The security forces attacked that gathering, as well.
Another 8th March meeting was organised to take place by the Parliament around 2pm. Around 200 people tried to attend this meeting who were attacked by the security forces, few people were arrested. The organisers managed to read their resolution [reproduced below]. The crowd had gathered to demand the release of women activists who were arrested Sunday 4th March.
8th March Resolution read by organisers of the 8th March rallies in Iran
:> United and in unison, we, women and freedom loving people declare: No to women’s oppression!
:> We protest against gender apartheid which has become institutionalized in Iran ; and demand the abolition of all anti women laws
:> We support the struggle of people for equal rights between men and women
:> We condemn any compulsory dress code
:> We demand the immediate banning of capital punishment and stoning
:> We strongly condemn any humiliation and violence against women
:> We condemn domestic and state violence
:> We demand the immediate release of women political prisoners
:> We support the teachers’ and workers’ struggle
:> We demand the immediate stop to the arrest and deportation of all Afghan residents and declare that all immigrants in Iran must enjoy equal civil rights.
:> We strongly believe and declare NO to economic sanctions; NO to war; NO to nuclear bombs; Long live freedom, equality and welfare for all.
Go sisters GO…
