STORIES

The Second Sex

Iran

Iran is a country where women are routinely denied their basic rights and subjected to discrimination, violence, and judgment. They face restrictions on their clothing choices, are often treated as second-class citizens, and are subjected to constant surveillance and harassment. These challenges are just a fraction of the daily struggles faced by Iranian women for generations.

While women's rights are neglected in many countries, particularly in the Middle East, Iranian women are actively fighting for equality and progress. Despite facing social, political, and cultural oppression, they continue to assert their rights and challenge discriminatory norms.

Over the past few decades, various social movements have emerged in Iran, advocating for women's rights. Some women have successfully overcome discrimination and proven their competence, while others have sought to reform social rules through criticism. However, the majority of Iranian women remain deprived of their most basic rights and are treated as if they are invisible.

The Iranian government has implemented laws and policies that further marginalize women. These include restrictions on women's education, employment, and travel, as well as laws that criminalize women for violating traditional gender roles. Additionally, women in Iran face a pervasive culture of patriarchy that reinforces gender stereotypes and limits their opportunities.

Despite these challenges, Iranian women are resilient and determined. They continue to fight for a more just and equitable society, where women can live their lives free from discrimination and oppression. The path to gender equality in Iran is still long and arduous, but the progress that has been made gives hope for a brighter future.

After graduating, Mahnaz Mirazei pursued her passion for challenging work by becoming a safety engineer in a mine. She made history by becoming the first female miner in Iran since the Islamic Revolution, working at the Saraparde mine near Koohbanan. Initially, the mine personnel had difficulty accepting a female engineer in their predominantly masculine environment. However, through her perseverance and dedication, Mahnaz eventually gained their respect and was appointed as the chief of the Saraparde mine, overseeing a team of 90 men and 5 women. Mahnaz hopes to inspire other women to pursue their goals and contribute to society, regardless of gender stereotypes.

Maryam Dehchi is one of the few female heavy truck drivers in Iran. She learned to drive from her father and began her career with the support of her husband. In 2014, she obtained her basic driving certificate. Ms. Dehchi faced significant challenges due to her gender, as truck driving is traditionally seen as a masculine profession. Many male drivers and passengers initially expressed skepticism or hostility towards her. Despite these obstacles, she persisted and has now been driving for nearly five years. While she still encounters mockery from some male drivers and passengers, there have been positive changes in societal attitudes towards women's abilities. A growing number of regular travelers now recognize that gender is not a determining factor in driving skill and willingly ride her bus.

Avakh, a 39-year-old woman, is the sole female carpenter in Gilan, Iran. Despite facing societal expectations that woodworking was a men's job, Avakh pursued her passion and learned the trade. Initially, Avakh's shop was met with skepticism from others. Some people questioned her ability to perform the physical demands of carpentry, while others simply couldn't imagine a woman working in such a traditionally male-dominated field. However, Avakh's dedication, skill, and perseverance quickly earned her respect. Today, Avakh is one of the most accomplished carpenters in northern Iran. Her work is admired for its quality and craftsmanship, and she has inspired many women to challenge gender stereotypes and pursue their own passions.

Elham Sadeghi, a dedicated entrepreneur, has turned her love for coffee into a thriving business. Her small café, nestled in a vibrant city street, offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu of expertly crafted beverages. Despite facing significant obstacles as a woman trying to secure a café license, including persistent discrimination and verbal abuse, Elham remained determined. For five years, she navigated bureaucratic hurdles and fought against prejudice, never allowing setbacks to deter her from pursuing her dream. Her perseverance paid off, and Elham's café eventually opened its doors to eager customers. With her passion for quality coffee and her commitment to providing exceptional service, she quickly built a loyal following. Today, her café is a beloved local institution, known for its delicious drinks, friendly staff, and cozy ambiance.

Shamim, a 21-year-old aspiring artist, has recently left her biology studies to pursue her lifelong passion for painting. Despite her family's objections and societal pressures against women pursuing artistic careers, Shamim has always been drawn to the visual arts. Now, far from her hometown, she is enrolled in a private painting class and is fully committed to honing her skills. With her newfound freedom, Shamim is determined to explore her artistic talents and make painting her primary focus.

Zahra, a 28-year-old women's football league referee, has faced significant challenges in a patriarchal society. Despite being told that women are incapable of officiating matches, she has persevered and become a successful referee. Unfortunately, Zahra is still denied access to standard sports fields due to her gender. She is forced to practice in unconventional locations like dirt grounds and parks. This lack of suitable training facilities led to an injury just a week after the photograph was taken. Zahra's dream is to have the opportunity to practice her craft in a standard, appropriate environment.

Maryam, a dedicated employee at a restaurant in Rasht, has defied expectations and risen through the ranks. Initially hired for her appearance, which was considered a key factor in attracting customers, Maryam quickly proved her worth beyond her physical attributes. With her strong work ethic, organizational skills, and ability to connect with customers, Maryam excelled in her role. Her dedication and talent caught the attention of her superiors, leading to her promotion to saloon manager. Maryam's journey is a testament to the potential of women in traditionally male-dominated industries. She believes that if given the chance, women can demonstrate their capabilities and challenge harmful stereotypes. By breaking down barriers and proving her worth, Maryam is paving the way for other women to succeed in their careers.

Sepideh, a 34-year-old modeling photographer, has defied expectations and carved out a successful career in a male-dominated industry. For over a decade, she has faced numerous obstacles, including a lack of support from her family and colleagues. Many people assumed her choice of profession was driven by personal motivations rather than professional aspirations. However, Sepideh's unwavering determination and passion for photography have fueled her success. Through hard work, talent, and resilience, she has established herself as a respected and accomplished photographer. Her achievements, including recognition at international festivals, serve as a testament to her abilities and a source of inspiration for aspiring female photographers. Sepideh's journey highlights the importance of perseverance and the power of pursuing one's dreams, even in the face of adversity.

Mahdie, a fearless art activist, defies societal expectations and expresses her creativity through poetry and photography. Her family, particularly her father and older relatives, hold traditional views that women are not suited for artistic pursuits. Despite facing intense opposition and disapproval, Mahdie has secretly nurtured her passion for photography. Through determination and perseverance, she has managed to organize several exhibitions showcasing her work, defying stereotypes and inspiring others. Mahdie's courage to pursue her artistic passions in the face of adversity serves as a powerful example for women seeking to break free from societal constraints and embrace their creativity. Her exhibitions have not only showcased her talent but have also sparked important conversations about gender equality and the significance of artistic expression.

Soori, a 58-year-old retired housewife, faced limitations in her youth due to societal expectations. Despite being accepted to an architecture college, she was forced by her family to pursue nursing instead. Her family's opposition was rooted in traditional gender roles, as they believed that universities were not suitable for women. However, Soori's family has evolved, and her children are now encouraged to pursue their own educational paths. Having experienced the negative consequences of such restrictive views, Soori has always emphasized the importance of basic human rights to her children. She has instilled in them a deep appreciation for individual freedom, equality, and the right to pursue one's dreams. Soori's personal journey serves as a powerful reminder of the limitations women faced in the past and the progress that has been made towards gender equality. Her commitment to raising her children with a strong sense of human rights is a testament to her belief in a more just and equitable future.

Niloofar, a passionate music lover, faced opposition from her family regarding her musical aspirations. Despite their insistence on a different career path, she pursued her dream by investing her first earnings in a violin. After facing initial rejection due to her age, Niloofar found a private instructor and has been diligently practicing for countless hours to achieve her goal of playing in an orchestra. Her unwavering determination and passion for music have fueled her progress, despite the challenges she has faced. Niloofar believes that families should support their children's ambitions regardless of gender, as this would allow many talents to flourish. She is a strong advocate for gender equality and believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal expectations.

Nazanin, a determined entrepreneur, founded a phone taxi service in Jahrom in 2013. In a city with a predominantly religious atmosphere, Nazanin faced significant challenges and discrimination in the early days of her business. Despite facing resistance and a lack of customers, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of success. Through her perseverance and dedication, Nazanin's taxi company eventually gained recognition and became one of the most successful in Jahrom. Her innovative business model and exceptional service provided a valuable transportation option for the city's residents. Beyond her own success, Nazanin's company has had a positive impact on the local community. By creating employment opportunities for numerous women in Jahrom, she has empowered them financially and contributed to the overall economic development of the city. Nazanin's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the potential for women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Nili, a courageous and determined woman, has defied societal norms and broken barriers by becoming a driving instructor in a region where women face restrictions and discrimination in driving. Despite facing opposition and prejudice, Nili pursued her passion for driving and teaching others. Through her determination and resilience, Nili has established herself as a successful driving instructor, empowering women to gain independence and mobility. Her efforts have challenged traditional gender roles and helped to create a more inclusive and equitable society. By teaching women to drive, Nili is not only providing a valuable skill but also inspiring them to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams.