Where Were They? Canada’s Feminists and Leftists Missed the Big Iran Protest

"History belongs to those who show up," the saying goes. On a crisp autumn day in Toronto, thousands gathered to protest against the oppressive Iranian regime. Their voices echoed with demands for justice, equality, and freedom—yet a glaring absence was hard to ignore. Where were Canada’s self-proclaimed champions of human rights? The feminists, the progressives, the leftists who so often rally for global causes—this time, they were nowhere to be found.

This isn’t just about one protest. It’s about a broader question: why do some movements inspire passionate advocacy while others are met with silence? Let’s dive in and unpack this troubling pattern.

Understanding Iranian Oppression

The roots of oppression in Iran run deep. Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the government has focused on maintaining tight control over its people. This has resulted in significant human rights abuses, restricted freedoms, and a pervasive atmosphere of fear.

One glaring example is the government's suppression of freedom of speech. Iranians live under constant surveillance, limiting their ability to voice dissent. Reports indicate that in 2022 alone, over 600 journalists were arrested, with many facing harsh sentences simply for expressing their opinions.

A woman sitting by fountain in hijab.

This repression extends to women's rights as well. Strict dress codes and limitations on participation in public life affect millions of women in Iran. For example, in recent protests, women challenged these harsh regulations, facing police brutality as a consequence. Their bravery not only highlights their struggle but also undermines societal progress.

It was a usual day, I woke up, had a glass of warm water, brushed and unlocked my phone to connect myself to the network of global news. I was mindlessly scrolling till an alert highlighting about a certain protest that was happening on the west side of the globe. Country was Canada.

Protesters took to streets of city of Richmond Hill, Toronto on September 19th, 2022 for women rights after brutal death of a 22 year old Mahsa Amini

The protests erupted after the tragic death of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini in police custody. She had been visiting Tehran with her brother, and as they stepped onto a subway platform, Iran's notorious “morality police” pounced. Their crime? Mahsa wasn’t wearing the compulsory hijab and body-covering black attire deemed “proper” by the regime—clothing that leaves no skin visible beyond the face and hands.

The demonstration was massive. Thousands of voices united, calling out Iran's brutal regime for its ongoing suppression of women and dissenters. The energy was palpable. Signs demanding justice filled the air, the crowd swelling with hope and defiance.

“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words have rarely been more relevant than they are today for the women of Iran. Across the globe, millions have rallied in solidarity with Iranian women risking everything for their fundamental rights. Yet, in Toronto, during one of the largest protests against the Iranian regime, a deafening silence came from an unexpected quarter. 

It was impossible to miss who wasn’t there: Canada’s feminists and leftists. Canada’s self-proclaimed champions of equality—those who often take to the streets for every cause under the sun—were conspicuously absent.

Why this silence? Why this selective activism? These are not easy questions, but they are critical to address. The feminist movement in Canada has historically aligned itself with global struggles, amplifying voices from marginalized communities worldwide. So why, when women in Iran are risking their lives for the basic right to choose, are these voices quiet?

One possible explanation is political discomfort. For many on the left, criticizing regimes in countries like Iran can feel fraught. There’s a fear of being labeled Islamophobic or of reinforcing stereotypes about the Middle East. But let’s be clear: standing against oppression is not an attack on a religion or a culture. It’s a stand for humanity.

Consider this: just weeks ago from these protests, Canadian streets were filled with protesters rallying against climate change, systemic racism, and economic inequality. These are critical causes, no doubt. Yet the same fervor should apply to supporting Iranian women fighting for the right to live freely and without fear. Allyship doesn’t end where geopolitical boundaries begin. Or do they?

Here’s what needs to happen:

1. Acknowledgment – Canadian feminists and leftists must recognize their silence and its implications. The absence of solidarity is noticed, and it undermines the very principles they stand for.

2. Engagement – Advocacy isn’t limited to showing up at protests, though that’s a good start. Share stories, amplify Iranian voices, and push policymakers to take action against oppressive regimes.

3. Re-evaluation – It’s time to confront the discomfort head-on. Fear of criticism or political missteps cannot outweigh the need for moral clarity. When women’s rights are under attack, neutrality is complicity.

The fight for freedom in Iran is not just an Iranian issue; it’s a global human rights crisis. The courage of Iranian women and their allies is a reminder that the struggle for justice is universal. Canada’s feminists and leftists have an opportunity—no, an obligation—to show up. Let’s not let another moment pass without action.

The question remains: when the next call for solidarity rings out, will they answer?