Iran: the Untold Story: Young Activist Asal Rezapour Shares Her Journey and Hopes for a Free Iran
Written by
Shamsi Saadati
In another episode of the “Iran: the Untold Story” podcast, 20-year-old Asal Rezapour shared her journey of political activism and her hopes for a democratic Iran. Born in Tehran and raised in Luxembourg, Asal’s commitment to the Iranian Resistance is deeply rooted in her family’s history. Her parents, former political prisoners in the 1980s, have been a significant influence on her activism and outlook on life.
Asal’s connection to the Iranian Resistance is both personal and profound. Her mother, in particular, has been a guiding force, providing hope and showing her that there is a way to fight for change. Reflecting on her parents’ youth, when they were arrested for their activism, Asal sees parallels in her own life and feels a strong sense of duty to continue their legacy.
Meeting members of the Resistance, has further strengthened Asal’s resolve. “It’s a different experience when you get to hear the stories from someone who actually lived through it,” she noted. Aziz Rezaee, who has lost her children and grandchildren to the brutal regimes of the Shah and the mullahs, serves as a powerful symbol of strength and perseverance for Asal and many others.
A key inspiration for Asal is the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, whose Ten-Point Plan for Iran outlines a vision of a democratic society that starkly contrasts with the current dictatorship.
“The Ten-Point Plan of Mrs. Maryam Rajavi is a direct answer to the regime’s dictatorship,” Asal stated. She believes that this plan is inclusive and beneficial for all Iranians, offering a new way of living in a society that values democracy and human rights.
Asal spoke highly of her encounters with Mrs. Rajavi, describing her as a “symbol of resistance and strength.” She admires Mrs. Rajavi’s humanity and approachability, qualities that resonate deeply with those who meet her. “She’s very human. She listens to people, she serves her country… She can express herself in a few words and it truly changes your view on everything,” Asal said, highlighting the profound impact Mrs. Rajavi has on those around her.
Envisioning a future in Iran, Asal dreams of a country where men and women are equals, where freedom of speech is guaranteed, and where diverse opinions can coexist harmoniously. She attributes this vision to the values she was raised with and sees it reflected in Mrs. Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan.