Wednesday, April 20, 2005

Unprecedented protest action at Esfahan's Court Building

SMCCDI (Information Service) via email until their website is restored:
An unprecedented protest action took place, today, at Esfahan's Court building. Tens of employees of the Department of Justice occupied the corridors and protested against their conditions and the Gender Apartheid Policy existing in Iran.

The action took place as suddenly some female employees got out of their offices and asked for equal rights. Soon most of their male colleagues rallied in their support.

Slogans were shouted by the demonstrators who were including several judges appointed by the Islamic leadership.

Security forces and the usually feared members of Herrassat (Department's Intelligence) intervened by threatening the protesters and filming their actions. Tens of patrol cars were rushed to the area and militiamen closed the accesses to the building. Doors were closed and the public was thrown out of the facility.

Esfahanis are known for their bravery and opposition to the Islamic regime. Their city has been scene of some of the most violent clashes in the last years.