ECC Stands in Solidarity with the Women and People of Iran

ECC Leadership Attends Special Meeting at NSW Parliament

On Thursday, 7 August 2025, the CEO and several board members of the Ethnic Communities’ Council of NSW (ECC) joined a powerful gathering at the NSW Parliament to stand in solidarity with the women and people of Iran.

The event, titled “Stand with the Women and People of Iran”, was hosted by the Hon. Sonia Hornery MP and co-hosted by the Hon. Jacqui Munro MLC, in collaboration with the Iranian Women’s Association, Australia. Held in the Jubilee Room, the meeting brought together Members of Parliament, community leaders, human rights advocates, and members of the Iranian-Australian community.

The special session was convened in response to the Iranian regime’s continued and intensifying repression, most recently marked by the execution of two political prisoners, Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani. These actions have raised international alarm, evoking painful memories of the 1988 political massacre, in which around 30,000 prisoners were executed.

ECC’s presence at the meeting underscored its deep commitment to justice, human rights, and solidarity with oppressed communities. The Council joined calls for sustained international attention and meaningful action, particularly from Australia and New South Wales, to support the Iranian people’s ongoing struggle—especially the courageous women and girls leading the call for freedom.

“Human rights are not bound by borders,” said ECC CEO Mary Karras. “We cannot remain silent while women, young people, and entire communities are being persecuted for demanding dignity and basic freedoms. Today, we stand with the people of Iran and echo their call for justice.”

The meeting served as a platform for sharing updates, deepening collective understanding, and coordinating advocacy efforts. ECC’s participation sent a strong message of support for those seeking freedom and equality in Iran and around the world.

The Ethnic Communities’ Council of NSW remains committed to standing alongside the Iranian-Australian community and all communities fighting for a future rooted in justice, freedom, and human dignity.