Letter to the Editor by
Jim Karygiannis, M.P.
Scarborough-Agincourt
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I sense that emotions are running high in Tehran concerning the circumstances involved in the untimely death of Canadian journalist, Zahra Kazemi.
Ms. Kazemi was arrested in June for taking photographs outside Tehran’s Evin prison, during student protests that are still ongoing. Her death last week has stirred up a myriad of reactions here, in Canada and around the world. At this time, I believe it is most important to pay tribute to Ms. Kazemi for her courage as a journalist working in the midst of conflict and to offer our prayers and deepest sympathies to her family.
This week I drove by Evin prison and was very moved by what I witnessed. Hundreds of family members and relatives of prisoners congregated outside the prison gate. They waited for hours for the slightest news of the fate of their loved ones. Many of them left the street still desperate for any word of hope, but vowing to return once again to stand vigil.
In light of these recent situations, I had the opportunity to meet with officials of the Canadian Embassy. I learned first hand about the constant unrest as the majority of Iranians struggle for democracy. Not only was I apprised of the latest developments but we also discussed the importance of the continuation of dialogue with Iranian authorities.
Having observed what life is like these days here in Tehran, it is my sincere belief that constructive diplomatic efforts should continue to be made to positively resolve these vital issues. This would help to bring stability to the lives of Iranians.
