Free Iran Convention 2025 Side Event, featuring Saliha, WomenNC Delegate

Free Iran Convention 2025, Washington, DC

WomenNC students and leaders had the powerful opportunity to participate in the 2025 Free Iran Convention in Washington, D.C., organized by NCRI—a gathering that united activists, policymakers, global youth, and members of the Iranian diaspora in the call for freedom and human rights in Iran.

Our Scholars and Youth Leaders attended sessions featuring testimonies from Iranian youth, messages from political prisoners, and updates from the resistance movement inside Iran. They learned directly from advocates navigating censorship, gender apartheid, surveillance, and systemic oppression—hearing firsthand how young people in Iran continue to risk everything in the fight for democracy and women’s rights.

One of the most moving parts of the convention was the International Youth Panel, where youth from Iran, Afghanistan, and Ukraine shared their stories of displacement, resilience, and hope. Some described the heartbreak of leaving the only home they’ve ever known; others reflected on the struggle of fighting for a homeland they have never been able to see. They spoke about finding identity through conflict, learning to advocate through crisis, and discovering strength in community. Their stories reminded all of us that youth are not just witnesses to global crises—they are leaders shaping the path forward.

WomenNC was honored to participate in such a timely and global convening. Our students returned inspired, informed, and even more committed to advancing women’s human rights—both here in North Carolina and around the world. Experiences like this deepen their understanding of global solidarity and reinforce the essential role young people play in every movement for justice and freedom.

Edan Ward, WomenNC Delegate from Wake Tech, appears on IrannTv

Annie Clark, 2010 WomenNC Alumni, appears on IrannTv