About

Nima Shafagh Dost was born on September 12, 2005, in the vibrant town of Urmia, nestled in Iran’s West Azerbaijan province. Growing up in a community deeply rooted in cultural traditions and social activism, Nima’s early life was marked by a profound sense of justice and a keen awareness of his surroundings. As a student, he was known for his curiosity and engagement with the world around him, characteristics that would later define his participation in one of Iran’s most significant periods of civil unrest.

In the fall of 2021, Iran was swept by a wave of nationwide protests, sparked by widespread discontent with the government’s policies and actions. Like many young Iranians, Nima felt compelled to join the demonstrations, driven by a desire for change and a better future for his country. His involvement in the protests, however, would have tragic consequences. In early October, amidst the chaos and violence that marred the protests in Urmia, Nima was grievously injured by gunshot wounds inflicted by security forces. Despite the severity of his injuries, fear of arrest and persecution led his family to initially treat him in secret, away from the prying eyes of the authorities.

Nima’s struggle for survival ended on October 3, 2021, when, after days of clandestine treatment proved futile, he was finally taken to a hospital. His death not only robbed a family of a beloved son but also highlighted the brutal repression faced by protestors at the hands of the state. In the aftermath, the authorities attempted to obscure the circumstances of his death, pressuring his family into silence and spreading disinformation about the cause of his demise. Yet, the courage of Nima’s mother in speaking out, despite the risks, sheds light on the truth of Nima’s fate and the broader struggle for justice and freedom in Iran. Her testimony stands as a stark reminder of the human cost of oppression and the resilience of those who continue to resist it.