TITLE: Expressing solidarity with the freedom movement in Iran.

SUMMARY: Expressing solidarity with the freedom movement in Iran.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The people of Iran have risen up powerfully against the grim oppression of a cruel theocracy; and WHEREAS, In September 2022, a vibrant young woman, Mahsa Amini, was detained by the country's morality police for allegedly wearing her headscarf improperly; she was killed in their custody, and women took to the streets in protest, tossing their headscarves onto bonfires, cutting off their long hair, and even engaging in physical confrontations with police; demonstrations against the savagery of gender apartheid and political persecution spread across the country, filling the streets with defiant cries of "Women, Life, Freedom" and vows to fight the dictatorship; and WHEREAS, The government attempted a complete crackdown, sending security forces to attack protesters with tear gas, batons, and bullets; rather than retreating, the freedom movement grew in size and determination, crossing lines of religion, class, age, and ethnicity; it galvanized major cities, college campuses, and small towns all across Iran, as chants of "I will defend my sister" underlined the centrality of women in the struggle against a corrupt and brutal regime; and WHEREAS, Over 500 protesters have now been killed, including some 70 children, according to human rights monitors; nearly 20,000 Iranians have been arrested, and at least 100 have received death sentences or been charged with capital offences; sham trials have already led to a number of executions; nevertheless, with women and youth at the forefront, resistance to authoritarian rule continues; and WHEREAS, Iranian women have taken the lead in a courageous fight for liberty, justice, and human rights, becoming agents of change, and their self-sacrifice and fierce resolve are a source of tremendous inspiration to people the world over; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby express solidarity with the freedom movement in Iran and heartily commend the brave women who lead it.