He has been particularly vocal in his advocacy for political prisoners, notably members of the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK).
Reflecting on his Congressional tenure from 1995 to 2011, Kennedy recounted his efforts to highlight the plight of political prisoners worldwide. “Being in Congress allowed me to spotlight the stories of those jailed for their political beliefs. I frequently signed amnesty letters on behalf of MEK members imprisoned in Iran,” he said, contrasting the oppressive Iranian regime with the freedoms enjoyed in the United States.
Kennedy traced the history of oppression in Iran from the Shah to the current theocratic regime. Initially, the mullahs promised greater freedom but soon imposed even stricter controls. “Theocratic fascism has wreaked havoc on the people of Iran and turned the country into a pariah state as the largest state sponsor of terrorism,” he remarked.
While condemning the ongoing executions in Iran, I join the call by @Maryam_Rajavi for the UN to take immediate action to save the lives of death row prisoners. #WorldDayAgainstTheDeathPenalty #ProsecuteRaisiNOW https://t.co/HKWMeCyQd6
— Patrick J. Kennedy (@PJK4brainhealth) October 10, 2021
After leaving Congress, Kennedy continued to advocate for the safety of MEK members in Camp Ashraf, Iraq. These individuals faced severe threats from Iranian-backed militias and the Iranian Guard. “Despite our efforts to secure their safe passage, many were tragically killed due to Iranian influence over the Iraqi government,” Kennedy lamented.
Kennedy praised the Iranian Resistance, particularly the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and its President-elect Maryam Rajavi, for their persistent efforts to expose the regime’s atrocities. “Thanks to the resistance, the world knows about the 1988 massacres and other human rights abuses. This awareness enables us to maintain pressure on Iran,” he stated.
Man Irani Hastam thank you @CaliSDI #Iran #HumanRights #US Policy @IranConvention
— Patrick J. Kennedy (@PJK4brainhealth) February 23, 2014
Drawing inspiration from historical figures, Kennedy spoke highly of Massoud Rajavi, an inspirational leader for the democratic movement in Iran. He also reflected on his father’s admiration for individuals who stood against oppression, such as Nelson Mandela and Massoud Rajavi. “He admired people fighting against the odds and risking their lives for a new world without oppression and violence,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy’s commitment to the cause extends to his family. He shared a poignant memory of bringing his children to a rally in Paris, where Maryam Rajavi emphasized the future generation’s role in the struggle for freedom. “It’s crucial to show my children the value of courage and legacy,” Kennedy said, highlighting the impact of strong female leadership exemplified by Rajavi on his daughters.
Looking to the future, Kennedy expressed confidence in a democratic Iran. He emphasized Persia’s deep-rooted culture of education and civilization, predicting a return to global leadership once theocratic rule is dismantled. “The people of Iran have a history of literacy and civilization that will reassert itself,” he predicted.
Kennedy dismissed the notion that sanctions harm the Iranian people more than the regime, comparing it to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. “The people are already suffering. They want change, not trickle-down aid. We must stand with them,” he asserted.In conclusion, Kennedy urged continued international support for the NCRI and the broader Iranian.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu
