It goes without saying that 80,000 people can gather in Berlin to show solidarity with the demonstrators in Iran, or that I can write this personal comment - without risking our lives.

Although I grew up in a democratic and open society, I don’t take this privilege for granted. Because I was born in a country where basic human rights and civil rights don’t exist. Iran. A country known since the Islamic Revolution in 1979 as brutal clerical dictatorship, which stands against the aspirations of a young and vibrant nation that is deeply rooted in an ancient culture of humanism.

The death in custody of Mahsa Amini, 22, sparked widespread demonstrations across Iran.

Almost all of the Islamic Republic's previous protests have been about the state of the economy.

This time it’s different. Women, particularly young women, have taken to the streets - the slogan chanted at protests: „Zan, Zendegi, Azadi“ (Woman, Life, Liberty).

They risk their lives by raising their voices. Read that again.

Iran's Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) estimates that at least 244 people have been killed in the protests. Amongst them also brave school children. Over 12,500 protesters were arrested in less than two months.

I’ve been a silent demonstrator in the past. Having 1:1 meetings to express criticism. But this is no longer an option for me. My voice, and your voices are the only hope that the people of Iran have left that can bring about change. 

Us speaking up by supporting Iranian women in their demands, keeping count on the dead, and publicly condemn the actions of the Iranian regime, is the only leverage they have.  

We at Rareté Studios, Alex and I, raise our voices for the pursuit of happiness, and for women’s rights and gender equality. This is at the core of our DNA and we will continuously raise awareness for topics close to our hearts.