Parents of Mahsa Amini React to Sakharov Prize Award: 'It is a Sign of the Esteem of Iranian Women'

Following the announcement of Mahsa Amini and the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement as the recipients of the Sakharov Prize, Mahsa's parents expressed their happiness in separate messages regarding the allocation of this award to their daughter, who was killed while in the custody of the morality police. Mojgan Ekhtari, Mahsa Amini's mother, wrote in a message published on her Instagram page on Thursday, October 19, 'Mahsa, the chosen one of the women of the world, has become a symbol of courage, integrity, and dignity. My Zhina is one of the thousands of stars in the bright sky of freedom and nobility, representing the value of human rights for women worldwide.' She stated that she had previously referred to her daughter as 'a messenger and herald of love and friendship for the people of the world' and added, 'Today, this valuable award has reached my beloved Mahsa, in honor of this noble mission, to serve as a symbol of the esteem of Iranian women.' Mojgan Ekhtari emphasized, 'I send greetings to the proud women of my homeland and take pride in the name and reputation of Zhina for Iran and the world.' Amjad Amini, Mahsa's father, regarded her selection 'as the winner of the most prestigious human rights award from the European Union' as indicative of the attention of the electors and 'the global community to the victimization of Zhina and many of her peers' who 'lost their lives tragically simply for their desire for a free life.' He added, 'Today, we are not only grieving as Zhina's parents but mourning the loss of every dear one in Iran and around the world who are sacrificed in the pursuit of freedom, and our grief is repeated every day.' Amjad Amini further stated, 'We believe that the solidarity of people and political and social relations around the world should make the world a safer place for children and youth and human life. Those who have many dreams to live better lives in a safe world.' He expressed that 'Zhina, our daughter, has not died,' saying, 'We live with her. We are happy that her name has become a symbol of freedom-seeking and equality in the world, and we feel she is also happy and content like us.' The European Parliament announced on Thursday that Mahsa Amini and the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement in Iran were awarded the Sakharov Prize. This prize is awarded annually to individuals or groups that have shown significant activity in the fight against tyranny and in defense of freedom of expression.