To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to urge your immediate intervention in the case of Toomaj Salehi, a renowned Iranian rapper and human rights advocate currently facing ongoing persecution and unjust imprisonment by the Iranian regime.
A Renowned Artist Silenced:
Toomaj Salehi is a celebrated artist whose music shines a light on social injustices and critiques the Iranian regime's human rights violations. He has earned international recognition, including the prestigious Giglio d'oro award for promoting peace and defending human rights, and the 2023 Freedom of Expression Award for Arts from the Index on Censorship institute. Tragically, his peaceful activism has come at a heavy personal cost.
Violent Abduction and Torture:
In October 2022, Toomaj Salehi was brutally abducted by the regime in retaliation for his music and activism during the nationwide "Woman Life Freedom" protests. He was subjected to horrific torture for 12 hours, resulting in broken bones, eye injuries, and other physical and psychological trauma.
Unjust Imprisonment and Sham Trial:
Toomaj was initially sentenced to over six years in prison based on fabricated and defamatory charges. However, after international pressure, he was released in November 2023 after serving over a year, including 252 days in solitary confinement. Unfortunately, his freedom was short-lived.
Re-arrest and Baseless Charges:
Just 12 days after his release, Toomaj Salehi was re-abducted and sentenced to one year in prison for "propaganda against the regime" in a sham trial. This occurred after he spoke out about the torture he endured in prison on his YouTube channel and filed a complaint against his tormentors. The trial was conducted without his lawyer present and relied on defamatory accusations with no legal documentation. The video with English subtitles can be found here:
https://youtu.be/pWlF3i_1Kl8?si=OOn135CerUZiLyeL
Upcoming Trial and Medical Needs:
Facing another baseless charge of "spreading lies" with a looming trial on March 16th, Toomaj Salehi's situation is dire. He also requires immediate surgery for his leg injury sustained during the initial torture.
Call to Action:
We urge you to take immediate action to support Toomaj Salehi:
Demand his immediate release and dismissal of all false charges.
Call for independent investigations into the torture reports and ensure Toomaj Salehi receives necessary medical care.
Raise awareness about Toomaj Salehi's case and the ongoing human rights abuses in Iran.
Silencing artists who speak truth to power is a hallmark of authoritarian regimes. We must not allow Toomaj Salehi's voice to be silenced. Please take action and stand with Toomaj Salehi and all those fighting for freedom and justice in Iran.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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