Community members rally in south Edmonton amid mass protests in Iran

Edmonton's Iranian community gathered together on Sunday to hold a car rally in support for those fighting for freedom in Iran.

Members of the Iranian-Canadian community gathered in south Edmonton Sunday afternoon in solidarity with those conducting mass protests in their home country.

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Over the last week, Iran’s capital Tehran has seen mass demonstrations as citizens grow more dissatisfied with the current government amid the soaring cost of living. At least 15 people have been killed in the protests with dozens having been arrested.

“We put together this rally … to give moral support to our brothers and sisters in Iran who have been fighting for 47 years for their freedom,” said Amir Ghahari, the president of the Royal Iranian Canadian Civic Legion in Edmonton.

He said they are also asking the Canadian government to recognize three demands: Iranians want a regime change, to recognize Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as the leader of said transition, and to recognize its lion and sun flag.

The lion and sun flag was used by the Pahlavi monarchy before the Iranian revolution in 1979.

The rally comes four days ahead of the sixth anniversary of the Iranian military shooting down Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, killing all 176 people on board including 55 Canadians and 30 permanent residents.

“You can see this dictator regime, what they can do,” said Ghahari. “For so many years the west has just sat down and negotiated with them and thought that they’re going to be able to change something.

“They’re not changing. We want them gone.”

Dozens gathered at a parking lot at Southgate Mall, braving the January chill for the rally.

“This is so heartwarming to see all our fellow patriot Iranian-Canadians coming out here,” said Ghahari. “Seeing everybody loudly chanting is an emotional thing for us, and we’re thankful for all of these folks that showed up today.”

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Gates Guarin