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.

Guest: 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.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.