Jessica Chastain has solidified her support for women in Iran as protests continue across the country. Speaking with Entertainment Tonight on the red carpet this week the actress explained why felt compelled to speak out.
“It’s really important for me to use my platform to amplify anyone’s struggle for freedom and peace and safety. And what’s happening in Iran right now is heartbreaking to me. I’m following the news every day as I hope everyone is, and my heart’s with those girls,” Chastain told the outlet.
It comes after the star took to social media last month to share heartbreaking images from the streets of Iranian cities following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was killed by ‘morality police officers’ for wearing her hijab incorrectly. For weeks, outraged women have called for the end of violence with many protestors allegedly killed. Internet blackouts were also imposed by the government.
“I stand with the women of Iran and will amplify their voices from afar,” the 355 actress wrote on Twitter. . “When one woman is attacked, it is an attack on us all 🖤.”
I stand with the women of Iran and will amplify their voices from afar. When one woman is attacked, it is an attack on as all 🖤
— Jessica Chastain (@jes_chastain) September 25, 2022
The actress used her platform and her first Oscars win early this year to spread awareness for several issues facing the American people including suicide prevention, the suppression of the LGBTQI+ community, and seemingly, the overturning of the Rode v. Wade bill.
“Right now we are coming out of some difficult times that have been filled with a lot of trauma and isolation,” she said in accepting Best Actress for her role in The Eyes of Tammy Faye. “So many people out there feel hopelessness and they feel alone. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States. It’s touched many families. It’s touched mine and especially members of the LGBTQ community who oftentimes feel out of place with their peers. We’re faced with discriminatory and bigoted legislation that is sweeping our country with the only goal of further dividing us. There’s violence and hate crimes being perpetuated on innocent civilians all over the world.”
Chastain is just the latest A-lister to stand with Iranian women. At a Harry Styles concert this week the pop star stood in front of thousands of fans in Chicago holding a fan’s sign that read: “Stand with the woman of Iran #MashaAmini.”
@desmeh #harrystyles with a stand with the women of Iran sign tonight 😭😭😭 ilysm #hslot #mahsaamini
We must protect these people at all costs.
