David Cicilline: I Rise in Firm Support of the Brave Women and Men of Iran

“David Cicilline” declared in his speech to Congress: Today I rise in firm support of the brave women and men of Iran.

“David Cicilline” is the representative of the first congressional district of “Rhode Island” from the Democratic Party of the United States in the United States House of Representatives.

In his speech to the United States Congress, he not only responded to the crackdowns and killings that have occurred since the start of protests in Iran, but also declared that the Iranian regime must also stop supporting Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine. Iran must know that America stands with the people.

“David Cicilline” began his speech addressing the Speaker of the House, representatives, and all people in this way:

“Mr. Speaker, today I rise in firm support of the brave women and men of Iran who risk their lives to speak out against the human rights violations of the Iranian regime.

Today marks 131 days of protests in Iran. 131 days have passed since the funeral of Mahsa Amini, following her harassment, detention, and ultimately her killing by Iran’s morality police for improper use of the hijab.

Since her death, the people of Iran, both women and men, have taken to the streets in more than 133 cities across the country, demanding the respect of their basic rights and freedoms. For nearly 19 weeks, protesters have taken to the streets, making their voices heard and demanding respectful treatment.

But instead of listening, the Iranian regime brutally suppresses its own citizens. It shoots at protesters, mass arrests people, and resorts to torture and sexual violence. Human rights activists in Iran have reported since the start of the protests that nearly twenty thousand people have been arrested and more than five hundred people, including children, have been killed.

Furthermore, the Iranian regime has previously executed four protesters, and many others have been sentenced to death for crimes carrying capital punishment. This brutal violation of human rights must stop immediately.

The international community must stand with the people of Iran against this violent repression.

The Iranian regime must also stop supporting Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine, cease spreading terror in the region, and begin listening to its own people.

Today Congress has gathered to explicitly condemn the barbarism of the Iranian regime and express support for the people of Iran.

Their courage in the face of stifling repression and increasing impunity is inspiring to the world and deserves our deep respect and strong support. They must know that America stands with them.

I want to conclude by commending the Biden administration for working with our allies and partners to hold the regime accountable for human rights violations, by imposing sanctions against Iranian officials responsible for the violent suppression of peaceful protesters.

I eagerly anticipate continuing my bipartisan work to advance the cause of human rights in Iran.”

A video of his speech in English can be viewed below.