Martyred for Freedom

Masha Amini was an Iranian woman who was kept captive in jail for clamoring for Women’s Rights. Later she died in police custody under suspicious circumstances. Her death led to widespread civil unrest and protests. This is in the voice of Masha/ Civil uprising in Iran-Year, 2022 What crime did I do to deserve this? To be brutally beaten and imprisoned? When rapists, rogues and robbers roam scot-free What crime did I do to deserve this persecution? I am a woman of self-respect and dignity I believe man and woman have equal rights I wish to see my sisters walk in dignity I can’t but rebel against all man-made manacles, That bind a woman’s hands and legs, Putting shackles on her mind, and body. My mind revolts when we can’t walk free. So offensive it is to cover our heads with hijab And wrap ourselves in several folds of linen. I feel it a blatant denial of human rights. I am sure the unreasonable restrictions imposed, Will smother and cripple the fair sex. I am allegedly arrested and am now in prison bars, For violating and disrespecting Iran’s ‘Modesty code’ The fanatics dream that with my death, The clamor for freedom will die down. I am sure it will only blaze fierce in future days, Thousands will join, holding hands, Pledging their solidarity for a common cause, Drawing inspiration from me and women like me. Again, our shrieks for freedom, Can never be stifled or silenced. In cloistered darkness, I wait, Hoping to witness a bright sunrise.