The Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speech
The children of a prominent Iranian activist delivered a powerful speech on behalf of their mother, Narges Mohammadi, who is currently imprisoned in Tehran's notorious Evin Prison. The ceremony took place in Oslo, Norway, where Mohammadi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless dedication to human rights.
As her 17-year-old twins, Ali and Kiana Rahmani, stood by an empty chair, symbolizing their mother's absence, they read out a heartfelt message that Mohammadi had written while behind bars. The chair was adorned with her Nobel Peace Prize.
Mohammadi, who has been on a hunger strike since the announcement of her prize in October, expressed her gratitude and determination to continue fighting for freedom, equality, and democracy in Iran. Her children passionately conveyed her words, stating, "I am an Iranian woman, a proud and honorable contributor to civilization, who is currently under the oppression of a despotic religious government. I am a woman prisoner who, in enduring deep and soul-crushing suffering resulting from the lack of freedom, equality, and democracy, has recognized the necessity of her existence and has found faith."
In her speech, Mohammadi also paid tribute to Shirin Ebadi, the first Iranian woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. She highlighted Ebadi's groundbreaking achievements and expressed her admiration for the trailblazing activist.
Mohammadi's activism has not waned even while in prison. Currently, she is engaging in a hunger strike as a show of solidarity with the Baha'i religious minority, as announced by her brother and husband at a press conference in the Norwegian capital prior to the Nobel award ceremony.
In addition, she recently went on a hunger strike to demand the right to receive medical treatment without being required to wear a hijab, according to Berit Reiss-Andersen, Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee.
During the ceremony, Reiss-Andersen stated, "Recently, she was offered much-needed medical assistance at a hospital on the condition that she wore a hijab when leaving the prison. She refused and initiated a hunger strike. Eventually, she was taken to the hospital for a brief examination under tight security – but she did not wear a hijab. Her determination is unwavering."
While imprisoned in September 2022, Mohammadi also assumed leadership of the "Woman – Life – Freedom" movement after the tragic death of 22-year-old Mahsa Jina Amini. Amini died while in the custody of Iran's morality police after being accused of violating the dress code.
"The elimination of the mandatory hijab is tantamount to eliminating all forms of religious tyranny and breaking the chains of authoritarian oppression," Mohammadi's children stated on her behalf.
A large portrait of Mohammadi, with her hair uncovered, was prominently displayed during the ceremony on Sunday.
According to Reiss-Andersen, Mohammadi has requested the use of a specific photograph that represents her desired way of life. The photo shows her looking happy while wearing colorful garments, with her hair exposed and a confident gaze towards the viewer.
Reiss-Andersen also revealed that Mohammadi has been arrested a total of 13 times. In 2015, she was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 153 lashes. Unfortunately, her children have been unable to see her for the past eight years as they are living in France with Mohammadi's husband, Taghi Rahmani.
Last year's Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to human rights activists from Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia.
