Human rights activist Atena Daemi made her decision before knowing when authorities would arrive to take her to prison earlier this month. She would continue her activism –– even from prison. And now, from Evin prison she has begun a campaign.
In 2015, Atena was convicted of “propaganda against the state” and “insulting Islam” as a result of her activism against the death penalty and forced Hejab. She was sentenced to seven years behind bars.
The last time Atena was held at Evin prison she didn’t receive proper medical care for her serious health issues. Now she is using her experience of mistreatment to petition Iranian authorities. Atena is demanding that authorities provide prisoners with access to medication, doctors and proper meals as required by domestic law.
United for Iran supports Atena’s petition. We have worked with too many prisoners who are illegally denied access to necessary healthcare and proper food. Please join Atena’s efforts and demand humane –– and legal treament –– by signing her petition.
Imprisonment is difficult for anyone but it is especially challenging when you are suffering from an illness and denied medical care. Some of Iran’s bravest, most dedicated citizens are imprisoned and suffering because the authorities refuse to provide detainees with medical care –– a clear violation of domestic and international law.
–Atena Daemi
Narges Mohammadi, Mahvash Shahriari, and Zeinab Jalalian are three other Iranian citizens suffering from grave health issues in prison. Their condition is worsening by the day.
Nobody should endure inhumane and painful treatment that puts their life in danger. The Iranian authorities have made a choice to ignore their moral and legal obligations. But together, your voice and thousands more around the world can demand change.
You can also spread the word by sharing these tweets:
The law requires it! Provide prisoners with adequate health care. #HealthCare4Prisoners
Detention without adequate health care is torture. #HealthCare4Prisoners
Denying prisoners food and medicine isn’t justice. It’s torture. #HealthCare4Prisoners
Thank you for all you do.
In solidarity,
Firuzeh Mahmoudi
Director, United for Iran