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This episode contains descriptions of violence and injury.
In September, protests began in Iran over the death of a young woman, Mahsa Amini, at the hands of the government. The demonstrations have since intensified, as has the government’s response, with thousands arrested and a terrifying campaign of public executions underway.
Today, Iranians who have taken part in the demonstrations tell us — in their own words — why they are willing to brave such severe punishments to help bring about change.
On today’s episode
Cora Engelbrecht, an international reporter for The New York Times.
Background reading
The protests in Iran have escalated amid anger over religious rules and a rock-bottom economy.
A look at the Iranians who have been hanged, and those on death row, as the government tries to crush the monthslong uprising.
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Cora Engelbrecht contributed reporting.
Fact-checked by Susan Lee.
Special thanks to Nilo Tabrizy, Ishaan Jhaveri and Haley Willis.
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