Dozens participate in walk marking Lion and Sun Day

Many gathered at Hawrelak Park on June 14, 2026 for a march in support of Iran. (Miriam Valdes-Carletti/CTV News Edmonton)

Dozens gathered at Hawrelak Park on Sunday to mark Lion and Sun Day, honouring the birthday of Majidreza Rahnavard, who was executed by the Islamic Republic.

“We’re gathering today to raise awareness to the people that are being executed by the regime occupying Iran right now,” said activist Payman Parseyan.

Many supporters carried the Lion and Sun flag, which is currently banned at the FIFA World Cup games.

“Those gathered in this park, are fighting back against FIFA’s support for the Islamic regime and trying to make sure that the real flag of Iran is what’s representing the people in the stands and on the team,” said Parseyan.

The gathering featured a symbolic walk, run and cycle in solidarity with athletes who have been killed, imprisoned, or executed by the Iranian regime.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Miriam Valdes-Carletti