Reza Pahlavi is not a credible option for Iran’s future because he lacks political experience, offers no concrete roadmap for democratic transition, and relies on symbolism rather than institution-building. He does not support inclusive politics for Iran’s diverse ethnic communities, insisting on a rigid “one nation” narrative that denies plural national identities and risks reproducing exclusion and repression. He has also consistently avoided critically confronting or challenging his father’s policies toward Kurds, Turks, Lurs, and other marginalized groups, which raises serious concerns about accountability and historical honesty. He appears disconnected from the realities of working-class life and everyday economic struggle, speaking from privilege rather than lived experience. His surrounding circle is often divisive and hostile toward other opposition voices, undermining democratic norms, and his inconsistent stance on Women, Life, Freedom has weakened trust among women, the backbone of Iran’s resistance. Moreover, his political fragility makes him vulnerable to becoming a proxy for larger foreign powers rather than an independent, accountable leader—precisely what Iran cannot afford.
Soraya Fallah’s Advocacy Against Violence Against Women and Conflict-Related Violence
Soraya Fallah (ثریا فلاّح) is a Kurdish scholar, activist, and human rights advocate whose work has consistently focused on challenging violence against women, promoting gender equality, and advancing women’s rights in legal and social systems. Through grassroots activism, international advocacy, educational outreach, and creative expression, Fallah embodies a multifaceted approach to resisting violence, discrimination, and oppression.
One of the key early movements Fallah participated in was the One Million Signatures Campaign, an Iranian grassroots effort to collect one million signatures demanding the repeal and reform of gender-discriminatory laws that underpin systemic violence and inequality against women. The campaign sought reforms including the end of polygamy, equal rights in marriage and inheritance, and stronger legal protections against honor killings and other forms of violence.
Fallah was an active member of this campaign and was among the activists who first presented its message to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, helping amplify awareness of discriminatory legal structures that contribute to gender-based violence. In recognition of the importance of the campaign’s work, the One Million Signatures movement received prominent awards, including the Global Women’s Rights Award, highlighting its global impact.
Beyond legal reform, Fallah’s advocacy also extends into cultural and artistic resistance. She has used music as a platform to protest violence in conflict zones and the harm inflicted on women and civilians. One such artistic work is the song “The Weapon and the Womb,” co-created with musician Omeed Rafizadeh. Dedicated to the International Campaign to Stop Violence in Conflict, the song contrasts instruments of war with the symbolic power of life and denounces sexual violence, rape, and the widespread suffering of women in war-torn regions.
Soraya Fallah’s activism also includes leadership roles in human rights organizations and international platforms. As a founding member of the UN Women–US National Committee, Greater Los Angeles Chapter, she has worked to educate and mobilize communities to end violence, inequality, and poverty while empowering women to advocate for their rights.
Part of
This
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign running annually from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day) to raise awareness, demand action, and advocate for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls, including sexual violence, with recent themes focusing on ending digital violence and promoting technology for equality. This UN-led initiative calls for collective efforts from governments, civil society, and individuals to support survivors, challenge victim-blaming, and create safer communities, often using the color orange and hashtags like #16Days and #EndViolenceAgainstWomen.
Fallah’s commitment has been recognized through multiple awards and honors for her dedication to women’s rights, human rights, and community leadership, demonstrating both the breadth and depth of her contributions to resisting violence and uplifting women globally
Honoring Pakhshan Azizi in Women’s History Month &
Social Work Month –
Dr. Soraya Fallah
During Women’s History Month and Social Work Month
(March 18), I honor the courageous women who have dedicated their lives to
justice, equality, and humanitarian service—women like Pakhshan Azizi,
whose work should be celebrated, not punished.
As a Kurdish humanitarian worker and social worker,
Pakhshan has devoted her life to advocating for marginalized communities,
supporting victims of violence, and aiding displaced refugees, including those
in northern Syria. Her unwavering commitment to human rights and social justice
embodies the very spirit of resilience and compassion that these months seek to
uplift.
Yet, instead of recognition, she faces an unjust death
sentence in Iran, a stark reminder of the dangers women and social workers face
when they stand for justice.
As we celebrate the
achievements of women and honor the vital contributions of social workers, we
must also call on the global community to defend and protect them.
Pakhshan’s legacy should be one of empowerment, not
persecution. I call on the world to support her and demand justice—because
defending human rights should never be a crime.
The virtual seminar titled
"Empowering Women: Celebrating Our Legacy, Inspiring Our Future,"
held on March 26, 2024, marked a significant celebration of Women's History
Month. Organized by the United Nations Association of San Fernando Valley
(UNA-USA) in collaboration with the National Women's History Alliance (NWHA),
the event aimed to honor women's remarkable achievements and enduring legacy
throughout history.
Dr. Jill Kracov Zinckgraf, the Interim
Executive Director of NWHA, delivered a compelling keynote address that
illuminated the resilience, courage, and empowerment defining the legacy of
women worldwide. Through captivating storytelling and insightful analysis, she
highlighted the significant contributions of women throughout history, from
pioneering trailblazers to unsung heroes.
During the interactive discussion
session, the facilitator posed a crucial
question to Dr. Zinckgraf: "It's
crucial to ensure that our exploration of women's history is inclusive and
representative of diverse experiences worldwide. How can we effectively
highlight the contributions and experiences of non-Western women throughout
history, and why is it important to amplify these voices in our discussions on
gender equality and empowerment? For instance, the latest feminist movements,
such as 'Woman Life Freedom,' have gained significant momentum in recent years.
Could you share your insights on how these movements are shaping the discourse
around women's rights and empowerment today, and what role they play in
advancing gender equality on a global scale?"
Dr. Zinckgraf provided a comprehensive
response, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and representation in
discussions on gender equality. She highlighted the need to recognize and
amplify the voices of non-Western women, whose contributions have often been
overlooked or marginalized.
She replied to attendees' questions
about SDG5, the role of initiatives, other significant events, and the role of
men in gender equality.
The virtual seminar featured dynamic
presentations, interactive discussions, and shared insights. It raised
awareness and facilitated meaningful dialogue on the importance of recognizing
and honoring women's contributions to society.
I had a hard day
It is with heavy heart and deep sorrow to announce the passing of my beloved friend DR.DAVID KAZZAZ in his 100 years birthday, yes I he lived for 100 years full of advice and loved life.
He passed peacefully in Denver Colorado, where I met him first time. I know David and his beautiful family for a long time, I am mourning the loss of an amazing friend, a wise mentor, a visionary philosopher, and a good psychiatrist. David and I had long discussions, trip to Northern Iraq-post Saddam war, to Kurdistan, trip to Red rock in Denver Colorado, and established a nonprofit together.
He was and remains as a remarkable human being who touched many people’s heart, he believed that Kurds are the nation that love life and will survive all the atrocities.
I’ll treasure his book “Mother of the Pound” with his signature on it, I read his wise emails again, and cherish my memory with him.
Farwell David, I am happy everyone loved you and wanted to be around you.
I am mourning the loss of a true friend, a wise mentor, a visionary philosopher, and a good psychiatrist. David and I had long discussions, traveled to Northern Iraq-post Saddam war, to Kurdistan, a trip to Red Rock in Denver, Colorado, and established a nonprofit together.
He was and remained a remarkable human being who touched many people’s hearts; he believed that Kurds are a nation that loves life and will survive all the atrocities.
David!
I treasure your book “Mother of the Pound” with your signature; I re-read your wise emails and cherish my memory with you.
Farwell David, I am happy you were loved and will live in my heart forever.
Dr. David Kazzaz, Denver; Husband of the late Louise Kazzaz; Father of Daniel, Amos, Jeffrey and Jerome Kazzaz; Grandfather of Rebecca, Jeremy, Zachary, Talya, Shira, Ariana, Zoe and Sarah; Great-grandfather of Eitan, Karen, Sophie, Abraham and Gabriella.
Funeral service, Thursday, March 16th at 1pm at Congregation Rodef Shalom. Service will be live streamed by Rodef Shalom: https://www.rodef-shalom.org/stream.
Burial to follow at Mount Nebo.
Following are part of my memories with him.
Soraya Fallah Interviews Dr.David Kazzaz
In May 2014 Soraya Fallah ,Women human rights activist and researcher traveled to Denver to revisit her mentor and friend, Dr. Kazzaz and interview him on his philosophy and activities for peace in the Middle East and Kurdish cause.
Dr.Kazzaz advocates the WOMEN LEADING LIFE movement and provides a set of life-affirming strategies that can be implemented among any segment of a population, in any nation on earth. Above all, in these deeply troubling times, this treatise offers a message of hope and inspiration and urges us all to cherish and celebrate life.
Psychiatrist and author of Mother of the Pound doctor David Kazzaz, a native of Iraq, pursued his medical studies in Beirut in the 1940s and emigrated to the United States in 1954, settling in Denver, Colorado. He was Senior Associate at the Institute for the Study of Israel in the Middle East in the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver. His life experiences extend from the post--World War one period through the post September 11 era.
He offers a unique perspective on the causes behind the rampant brutality witnessed across the globe today—be it suicide bombings in the Middle East, genocidal wars in Africa, or terrorist strikes on American shores.
Powerful images of protests around the world following the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran
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SENSITIVE MATERIAL. THIS IMAGE MAY OFFEND OR DISTURB People take part in a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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People take part in a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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A demonstrator holds hair during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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People take part in a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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A pile of hair is seen after demonstrators cut their hair during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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SENSITIVE MATERIAL. THIS IMAGE MAY OFFEND OR DISTURB A civil guard officer asks Activists from the women's rights group FEMEN to remove their signs from the gate of the Embassy of Iran, as they protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, in Madrid, Spain, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Susana Vera
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SENSITIVE MATERIAL. THIS IMAGE MAY OFFEND OR DISTURB Activists from the women's rights group FEMEN hold signs, during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Embassy of Iran, in Madrid, Spain, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Susana Vera
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A handmade sign by calligrapher Faramarza Karimi, reading "Woman, Life, Freedom", in Kurdish calligraphy, at a candlelit vigil following the death of a young Iranian Kurdish woman, Zhina Mahsa Amini, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Demonstrators sing the Kurdish national anthem in protest at a candlelit vigil following the death of a young Iranian Kurdish woman, Zhina Mahsa Amini, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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A image of Zhina Mahsa Amini at a candlelit vigil following her death, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Protests: Mahsa Amini
SENSITIVE MATERIAL. THIS IMAGE MAY OFFEND OR DISTURB Activists from the women's rights group FEMEN protest, following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Embassy of Iran, in Madrid, Spain, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Susana Vera
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Dr. Soraya Fallah (center), an Iranian Kurd, demonstrates with an image of Zhina Mahsa Amini at a candlelit vigil following her death, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Demonstrators construct a heart out of candles during a vigil protesting the death of a young Iranian Kurdish woman, Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Ardalan Goran, an Iranian Kurd, uses his iPhone while recording fellow demonstrators at a protest following the death of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, a young Iranian Kurdish woman, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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SENSITIVE MATERIAL. THIS IMAGE MAY OFFEND OR DISTURB Activists from the women's rights group FEMEN hold signs, during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Embassy of Iran, in Madrid, Spain, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Susana Vera
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A demonstrator displays an image of Zhina Mahsa Amini, an Iranian Kurdish woman, at a protest and vigil following her death outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Demonstrators scuffle with riot police, during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian Embassy, in Athens, Greece, September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Costas Baltas
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Demonstrators scuffle with riot police, during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian Embassy, in Athens, Greece, September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Costas Baltas
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A demonstrator holds a placard, during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian Embassy, in Athens, Greece, September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Costas Baltas
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Demonstrators scuffle with riot police, during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian Embassy, in Athens, Greece, September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Costas Baltas
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People light a fire during a protest over the death of Mahsa Amini, a woman who died after being arrested by the Islamic republic's "morality police", in Tehran, Iran September 21, 2022. WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS
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People light a fire during a protest over the death of Mahsa Amini, a woman who died after being arrested by the Islamic republic's "morality police", in Tehran, Iran September 21, 2022. WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS
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Photographs of what are said to be political prisoners held by Iran stand posted with roses during a rally against Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s address at the UN General Assembly during the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly outside U.N. Headquarters in New York City, U.S., September 21, 2022. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton
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Women take part in a sit-in following the death of Mahsa Amini, at Martyrs' Square in Beirut, Lebanon September 21, 2022. REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir
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Women hold a picture of Mahsa Amini during a sit-in following her death, at Martyrs' Square in Beirut, Lebanon September 21, 2022. REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir
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An Iranian woman living in Turkey reacts during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey September 21, 2022. REUTERS/Murad Sezer
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An Iranian woman living in Turkey points at an old Iranian royal flag during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey September 21, 2022. REUTERS/Murad Sezer
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People take part in a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey September 21, 2022. REUTERS/Murad Sezer
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A demonstrator holds hair during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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A demonstrator cuts hair during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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A demonstrator cuts hair during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2022. REUTERS/Christian Mang
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Pro-government peoples rally against the recent protest gatherings in Iran, after the Friday prayer ceremony in Tehran, Iran September 23, 2022. Iranians have staged mass protests over the case of Mahsa Amini, 22, who died last week after being arrested by the morality police for wearing "unsuitable attire". Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS
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An Iranian pro-government woman holds the Iranian flag during a rally against the recent protest gatherings in Iran, after the Friday prayer ceremony in Tehran, Iran September 23, 2022. Iranians have staged mass protests over the case of Mahsa Amini, 22, who died last week after being arrested by the morality police for wearing "unsuitable attire". Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS
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Demonstrators burn a hijab in protest at a candlelit vigil following the death of a young Iranian Kurdish woman, Zhina Mahsa Amini, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Demonstrators at a candlelight vigil following the death of a young Iranian Kurdish woman, Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Faramarza Karimi, an Iranian Kurdish calligrapher from San Diego, displays his handmade sign reading "Woman, Life, Freedom", in Kurdish calligraphy, at a protest following the death of a young Iranian Kurdish woman, Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., September 22, 2022. REUTERS/Bing Guan
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Nasibe Samsaei, an Iranian woman living in Turkey, cuts her hair during a protest following the death of Mahsa Amini, outside the Iranian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey September 21, 2022. REUTERS/Murad Sezer
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A police motorcycle burns during a protest over the death of Mahsa Amini, a woman who died after being arrested by the Islamic republic's "morality police", in Tehran, Iran September 19, 2022. WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS
Demonstrators in Canada, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Lebanon, Turkey, and the United States rallied in solidarity with protesters in Iran who have filled the streets over the death of Mahsa Amini, a Kurdish woman who died in police custody on September 16.
Amini was from the Kurdish minority and was with her brother in Tehran when she was arrested by morality police for wearing an “improper hijab.” She allegedly had some hair visible under her headscarf. She fell into a coma after collapsing at the Vozara Detention Centre. She died three days later.
Amini’s death has sparked widespread protests in Iran, with women burning headscarves in a defiant act of resistance against the Islamic Republic's strict dress code.
Now, the world is joining the women who are at the forefront of the fight against Iran’s government.
