Iran suppresses memorial for Mahsa Amini on anniversary of her death

In Iran, on September 16, 2025, the family of Mahsa Amini was barred from holding a memorial service to commemorate the third anniversary of her death. Amini, a 22-year-old woman, died in custody after being detained by Tehran's morality police for allegedly violating hijab laws. Reports indicated that security forces were deployed outside her family’s home in Saghez, Iran’s Kurdistan Province, to monitor their movements closely since September 14. The family was also denied access to Aichi Cemetery where Amini is buried, with authorities blocking routes to the cemetery by flooding them. This suppression of Amini's memory marks a continuation of state repression against her family and supporters since her death in 2022 prompted nationwide protests labeled as the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement. In response to the protests, over 500 people were killed, and thousands were arrested as the regime sought to silence dissenters. The actions of the Iranian regime demonstrate a commitment to maintaining control over narratives related to Amini, whose death sparked significant unrest and calls for reform. On the third anniversary of her passing, the lack of accountability for human rights violations committed during the protests remains alarming, prompting further calls from human rights organizations for justice and recognition of the victims' suffering. As Iranian authorities continue their crackdown, public sentiment appears to be shifting, with more Iranian women openly defying the mandatory hijab laws despite increasing penalties. While the regime shows no signs of easing its grip, the spirit of resistance born from Mahsa Amini's tragic death continues to influence society.