

799: Marina Nemat | Surviving Inside an Iranian Prison
Feb 23, 2023
Marina Nemat, a human rights activist and author, shares her harrowing journey of survival after being imprisoned in Iran's notorious Evin Prison following the Islamic Revolution. She recounts life before the revolution, offering a stark contrast to the oppression that ensued. Marina details the torture she endured, her ultimate release, and her current work advocating for human rights. She also reflects on the resilience of the Iranian people and draws parallels to ongoing protests, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against authoritarianism.
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Normal Life Upended
- Marina Nemat's childhood in Iran was similar to Western teens: good schools, social life, and hobbies.
- This all changed with the Islamic Revolution.
Loss of Freedoms
- Under the Shah, Iranians had personal freedoms but lacked political ones.
- The Islamic regime eliminated both, severely restricting daily life.
Eroding Hope
- Initially, Iranians hoped the revolution would bring political freedom while preserving personal liberties.
- This hope faded as the regime imposed strict religious laws, like mandatory hijabs and bans on Western music and books.