Calgary’s Iranian community outraged after Iranian hip hop artist sentenced to death for promoting freedom
Several dozen members of Calgary’s Iranian community gathered at the peace bridge Saturday afternoon to share the plight of Toomaj Salehi.
He is an Iranian hip hop artist mainly known for his protest songs concerning Iran's societal issues and the policies of the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which has led to charges for “propaganda against the regime” and “insulting the supreme leadership authority”.
Salehi has been arrested, charged and released on bail several times over the past several years, but just days ago, on April 24, Salehi was sentenced to death for charges linked to Iran's 2022–23 Women, Life, Freedom movement.
Saturday's demonstration was an effort by the Iranian community to pressure Iran to do the right thing and reverse the execution order.
“They want to scare people, they say, okay, if you come to protest you will be against the Islamic regime of Iran, you'll be arrested and you'll be executed. That's their way. That's their tactic,” says Bijan Maysami, a member of Calgary’s Iranian community.
Salehi family said his life was at risk when he went on trial behind closed doors.
This group of Salehi supporters want the Canadian government to help fight for democracy in Iran.
“Iran is underhanded and nobody really can do anything,” says Maysami.
“That's why we need the Canadian government to recognize IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) as a terrorist group. That's our goal. That's going to help to the Iranian people for the goal to reach the freedom and democracy.”
German member of parliament Ye-One Rhie and Liberal MP and Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson have both become Salehi's sponsor with an aim to improve conditions during his imprisonment and prevent execution.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
1 dead, others injured after London-Singapore flight hit severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines says
One person has died aboard a London-Singapore flight that encountered severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines said Tuesday. The plane was diverted to Bangkok, where emergency crews rushed to help injured passengers amid stormy weather.
How to check the Air Quality Health Index and assess your health risks
As we enter another wildfire season, Environment and Climate Change Canada is advising people to pay attention to air pollution levels and check the Air Quality Health Index – especially on smoky days.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
Cardinal Lacroix cleared after investigation ordered by the Pope
The Vatican has announced that the investigation it commissioned into allegations of sexual touching against Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix did not confirm any act constituting misconduct or abuse on the part of the Vatican.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.
Katy Perry sings goodbye to 'American Idol'
Katy Perry said her goodbyes on 'American Idol' after seven seasons. On Sunday night’s live 'idol' season finale, a medley of Perry's hit songs were performed, including 'Teenage Dream,' 'Dark Horse' and 'California Gurls.'
DEVELOPING Defence witness who angered the judge in Trump's hush money trial will return to the stand
A defence witness in Donald Trump's hush money case whom the judge threatened to remove from the trial over his behaviour will return to the stand Tuesday as the trial nears its end.
The world's best airline is paying staff a bonus of 8 months' salary
Singapore Airlines will reward its employees with a bonus worth nearly eight months of salary, a person familiar with the matter told CNN on Friday.