Join our #UnityForToomaj initiative and stand in solidarity with Toomaj Salehi, the renowned Iranian rapper and activist. Together, let’s amplify our voices and demand justice that echoes across the globe. Spearheading the international campaign for Toomaj’s release are committed human rights activists based in Europe, Australia, and the United States. Toomaj’s uncle Eghabl Eghbali, actively supports these endeavors. This website, created by the family, is solely dedicated to ensuring Toomaj’s safety and taking every necessary step to reunite him with his loved ones. For further information or media inquiries, please click here to contact us.
Toomaj Salehi,a highly influential and dissident Iranian rapper and music writer, has accumulated widespread popularity in Iran. Toomaj has been an outspoken advocate for freedom of expression and has used his music to shed light on social and cultural issues in Iran for many years and even faced imprisonment in 2021. We inform you with dismay that Toomaj was sentenced to six years and three months of prison after having spent 250 days in solitary confinement, putting his life in danger
On July 3, 2023, news emerged that Toomaj Salehi had been charged with various fabricated and grave offenses by a Revolutionary Court in Isfahan. Regrettably, his trial was a grossly unfair spectacle tainted using severe torture. Despite the immense pressure, the Islamic Republic in Iran failed to extract any coerced confessions from him.
Following the conclusion of Toomaj Salehi’s court proceedings, a verdict has been issued. There are still real concerns that the Islamic Republic in Iran may resort to lethal measures against him. Such an outcome would result in the loss of another valuable life.
The so-called ‘legal’ charges are as follows:
‘Collaboration with the hostile government’ under the pretext of an interview with the Canadian
CBC media
‘Propaganda activity against the regime’ and ‘inviting riots’ under the pretext of inviting people to
express their wishes and demands.
We appeal to you to intervene in this matter and exert your influence to overturn all guilty verdicts against him andrelease him immediately and unconditionally.We implore you to mobilise every resource at your disposal to intervene swiftly and decisively.
By securing Toomaj Salehi’s release and advocating for the protection of human rights in Iran, you would demonstrate your unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of freedom, justice, and dignity for all.
Having dedicated his efforts to helping others, he now requires our collective support. Join us in an global movement to ensure the liberation of Toomaj Salehi. An exceptional open letter, emphasizing the need for swift action, will be emailed to influential leaders such as the Presidents of the United States, Canada, and Australia, the 27 member states of the European Union, and the Presidents of the European Parliament and Commission. Our objective is to gather signatures from politicians, notable public figures, organizations, NGOs, and activists.
AN UNPRECEDENTED OPEN LETTER SIGNED BY 200+ POLITICIANS, ASSOCIATIONS, KEY FIGURES, AND ACTIVISTS WORLDWIDE IS MAKING WAVES!
To:Joe Biden, President of the United States, Charles Michel, President of the European Council, Rishi Sunak, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission , Roberta Metsola, President of European Parliament, Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Leaders of the 27 Member States of the European Union
António Guterres, UN-General Secretary
Copy:Amnesty International International Human Rights Commission
Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
Human Rights Watch
Your Excellencies
Toomaj Salehi is an influential Iranian rapper known for his bold and dissenting voice, which has made him a prominent figure in the Iranian music scene. Born in Iran, Salehi rose to prominence in the late 2000s with his thought-provoking lyrics and powerful delivery that tackled social and political issues in his country.
Salehi’s music often reflects the realities of life in Iran, highlighting topics such as censorship, inequality, and government oppression. He uses his platform to speak out against injustice and advocate for freedom of expression, making him a symbol of resistance for many Iranians.
Throughout his career, Salehi has faced numerous challenges and obstacles due to the controversial nature of his music. The Iranian government, known for its strict control over artistic expression, has often targeted Salehi for his outspokenness. His songs have been banned, and he has faced censorship and harassment.
Despite the risks involved, Salehi continues to produce music that resonates with his audience. His lyrics delve into the struggles and aspirations of everyday Iranians, providing a voice for the marginalized and oppressed. His music serves as a form of protest and a call for change, inspiring many to question the status quo and fight for their rights.
Salehi’s impact extends beyond the boundaries of Iran, as his music has gained international recognition. His authenticity and courage have garnered support from artists, politicians, and activists worldwide, who have rallied behind him in demanding his freedom.
In recent years, Salehi’s situation has become more precarious, with increased government scrutiny and pressure. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to his art and the ideals he stands for, refusing to be silenced.
Toomaj Salehi’s story represents the struggle for freedom of expression and the power of music to challenge oppressive regimes. His unwavering dedication to speaking truth to power has made him a symbol of resistance and an inspiration to many both in Iran and around the world.
Egbal Egbali, Toomaj Salehi’s Uncle
Shabnam Khosravi, Toomaj Salehi’s cousin, advocate and person responsible for all of Toomaj’s
legal matters outside of Iran
Rosana Khosravi, Toomaj Salehi’s cousin and advocate, secondary person in charge of Toomaj’s
legal matters
Dylan Slama, French Human Rights Lawyer for Toomaj Salehi
Nicolas Walder, Toomaj political sponsor, Member of Parliament and Foreign Affairs Committee, Switzerland
Senator David Shoebridge, Toomaj political sponsor, Australian Greens Senator for NSW
GOVERMENT AND POLITICAL SIGNATORIES
Guy Verhofstadt, Member of EU Parliament, former Prime Minister of Belgium, Belgium
Hilde Vautman, Member of EU Parliament, Renew, President of ELF, Belgium
Abir Al Sahlani, Member of EU Parliament -Renew / Centerpartie, Sweden
Frédérique Ries, Member of EU Parliament, Renew, Belgium
Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Member of EU Parliament – Renew / FTP, Belgium
Nora Mebarek, Member of EU Parliament, France
Dorien Rookmaker, Member of EU Parliament, Netherlands
Yannick Jadot, Member of EU Parliament ,European Free Alliance, France
Raphaël Glucksmann, Member of EU Parliament S&D, Germany
Catharina Rinzema , Memeber of EU Parliament , Renew , VVD ( Netherlands)
Senator Claire Chandler, Shadow Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia
Stephen Kinnock, Lord and Member of Parliament, UK
Senator Jordon Steele-John, Green Senator for Western, Australia
Dr Reza Moridi, Former parliamentarian and minister, Canada
Dario Nardella, Mayor of Florence, Presented the Honorary Citizenship award for
Toomaj Salehi, Italy
François Bechieu, Deputy Mayor 19arrt of Paris, France
Sophie Rohonyi, Member of Belgian Parliament ( Défi),Municipal Councillor,
Chamber of Representatives, Belgium
Joël Giraud, Député des Hautes-Alpes, Assemblée nationale, France
Helmut Brandstaetter, Abgeordneter zum Nationalrat, NEOS, Das Neue Österreich
und Liberales Forum Parlamentsklub
Ludwig Vandenhove, Member of Vlaams Parliament, Sint-Truiden, Belgium
Michael Bernhard, Member of Parliament, Vienna, Austria
Kaweh Nemati, CDU Landtagskandidat für Frankfurt
Fiona Fiedler, Member of Parliament, NEOS, Vienna, Austria
Martina Künsberg Sarre, Member of Parliament, NEOS, Vienna, Austria
Halmut Brandstatter, Member of Parliament, NEOS, Vienna, Austria
Golriz Ghahraman, Member of Parliament, Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand, Auckland
Emmanuel Fernandes, Député du Bas-Rhin, Strasbourg, France
Adam Szlapka, Member of Parliament, Poland
Balthasar Glättli, Member of Parliament, GREEN Party, Berne, Switzerland
Crottaz Brigitte, Nationalrätin, Member of Parliament, Epalinges, Switzerland
Josef Rief, Member of Parliament, German Bundestag, Berlin
Natalie Imboden, Nationalrätin, Member of Parliament, Bern, Switzerland
Meri Disoski, Member of Parliament, Wien, Austria
Petra Bayr, Member of Parliament, Wien, Austria
François Pointet, Member of Parliament, Jogny, Switzerland
Brigitte Crottaz, Member of Parliament, Epalinges, Switzerland
Alireza Akhondi, Member of Parliament, Stockholm, Sweden
Barbara Schaffner, Nationalrätin, Schweizer Parliament, Otelfingen. Switzerland
Charles Flanagan, Member of Houses of the Oireachtas, Ireland
Danial llkanipour, Member of German Bundestag, Berlin, Germany
Ellen Samyn, Member of Flemish Parliament, Belgium
Fabian Molina, Member of Parliament, Switzerland
Genevieve Garrigos, Advisor of Mayor of Paris, Former president of Amnesty International, France
Hannelore Goeman, Member of Flemish Parliament, Belgium
Maryam Blumenthal, Vorsitzende von Bündnis 90/ Die Grünen, Hamburg, Germany
Michael Tongi Member of Parliament, Kriens, Switzerland
Monika Rosa, Member of Parliament, Poland
Nahima Lanrji, Member of Flemish Parliament, Belgium
Paola Bocci, Regional Councilor PD (Democratic Party) Lombardy, Italy
Sihame El Kaouakibi, Member of Flemish Parliament, Belgium
Silvia Roggiani, Metropolitan Secretary PD (Democratic Party) Milan, Italy
Balthasar Glättli, Member of Parliament, Bern, Switzerland
Germano Dottori, Member of the Board of Directors of Med-or, Advisor of Limes,
Parliamentary Political Advisor Consultant, Rome, Italy
PROMINENT PUBLIC FIGURES SIGNATORIES
Nazanin Boniadi, Actress and activist, USA
Hillel Neuer, Executive Director, United Nations Watch, Geneva, Switzerland
Alva Finn, Executive Director of European Liberal Forum
Marco Mariani , 2nd Vice President of European Liberal Forum, Partner of Catte Mariani law firm
Antonio Stango, President of FIDU , Italy
Andrea Cangini, Secretary General of Luigi Einaudi foundation, Italy
Michael Thaidigsmann, Executive Director of EU Watch, Switzerland
Jason Brodsky, Policy Director of United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI), USA
Luis Cano, Political engagement consultant, Director Rainbow Platform, Italy
Melissa Amirkhizy, European Liberal Forum, President Comite National organization for Freedom
Marco Pedroni, President of Ancc-Coop (National Association of Consumer Cooperatives), Italy
Andy Vermaut, Post Versa Chairman, World Council for Public Diplomacy and Community Dialogue Member, European People’s House, Italy
Professor Errol P. Mendes, President, International Commission of Jurists, Canadian Section Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa, Canada
Francesco Fortinguerra, commissione of Lombardy Region for Sacco & Vanzetti Association, Foreign Policy Reference of Europa Verde, Activist of the Giovani Europeisti Verdi Association
Diana De Marchi, President of the Equal Opportunities and Civil Rights Commission of Milan
Dariush Memar, Journalist Independent Persian, Germany
Mariam Claren, Activist and daughter of German political prisoner Nahid Taghavi, Germany
Ghazelle Sharmahd, Activist and daughter of German political prisoner Jamshid Sharmahd, USA
Milosz Hodun, Director of Projekt Polska, Poland
Nazanin Afshin-Jam MacKay, International Human Rights activist
Kaveh Shahrooz, lawyer and adjunct professor
Ali Arab, Statistics Associate Professor, Member of Amnesty USA
Dr Kylie Moore Gilbert, Academic and former Iran hostage
Shahinloo, Political Activist
Hossein Tohi, Artist, Iranian Raprt , Songwriter & Producer
AliShmas, Artist , Iranian Raprt
Ali SAM , Artist, Singer
Alan Bostakian, PhD, Founder of the Intelligent Change Management Think Tank for Human Rights
Hengameh Abbasi, Journalist, political prisoner
Mahnaz Ghezellu, Human rights activist, political prisoner
Fatemeh Haghighatjoo, Former member of 6th Parliament in Iran
Gabriele Baldassari, Professor, University of Milan
Dr. des. Ulrike Becker, Head of research, Mideast Freedom Forum Berlin
Mouna Mulder, Human right activist
Iman Vaez, Activist, Co-Founder of Iranians Unity Council
Sara Eshaghi, Founder of Action for Iran
Mona Jafarian, President of Femme Azadi
Nilufar Alafar Ziai, Activist & President of association comunitat Iraniana en Barcelona
Faramarz Bahar, Activist de droit de l’homme et président de comité indépendant contre la répression des citoyennes iraniens
Maryam Banihashemi, Activist, co-founder of House of Liberty
Mouna Mulder, Human right activist
Honiball Joseph, Composer, Conductor & Pianist
Amir Arfa, Artist
Sherry M, Artist
Zara Ghadiri, Artist
Arman Paisley, Musiker
KHAALES, Musiker
PAARSA, Artist
Sepideh Farsi, Filmmaker
Javad Djavahery, Writer
Kaveh Jamali, Witness.Report project manager
Federica Margaritora, Journalist
Giorgia Nardelli, Journalist
Alessandro Rocca, Journalist
Sohreh Nazar, Journalist
Hamid Shojaziba, Journalist
Federica Margaritora, Journalist
Zohreh Mizrahi, Human Rights lawyer
Saghi Gholipour, Activist & president of Free Iran
Zara Forouq Kanaani, Political activist and researcher
Hermineh Hourdad, Political activist and researcher
Mina Ahadi, Activist
Dr. Mitra Babak, Political activist
Babak Ghotbi, Political activist
Siavash Bakhtiari, Activist
Akbar Keshvari, Activist
Ehsan Pirvaly, Activist
Parvaneh Mohebi, Activist
Anvar Bapirvand, Activist
Vida Tehrani, Activist
Simin Jalali, Activist
Mina Imangholizadeh, Political activist
Sohrab Dideban, Activist
Shahram Darvish, Activist
Sohrab Didehban, Activist
Shahram Darvish, Activist
Nasrin Jalali, Activist
Hamid Pourfard, Activist
Narges Jalali, Women rights activist
Rahman Hajimaghsoudi, Political activist
Fahimeh Ilghami, Women rights activist
Salomeh Kiadarbandsari, Activist
Ramin Joubin, Activist and lawyer
Neda Sadeghiani, Pelar, activist,
Sheida Sharghi, Activist
Niloufar Hafizi, Attorney activist
Sheedeh Paya, Activist
Natascha Dammann, Activist
Elika Eftekhari, Attorney activist
Banafsheh Madaninejad, Scholar activist
Parisa Ilchi, activist
Anahita Sarshar, Activist
Kimia Aubin, Physician activist
Rayhane Tabrizi, Activist
