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Chicago unveils mural amplifying voices of Iranian citizens revolting against country's oppressive regime
Chicago has unveiled its first public mural amplifying the voices of Iranian citizens who — in the wake of the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini — are revolting against the country's oppressive regime.
CHICAGO - Chicago has unveiled its first public mural amplifying the voices of Iranian citizens who — in the wake of the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini — are revolting against the country's oppressive regime.
"I and we are disgusted by the oppressive extremism that has taken hold," said 5th District Congressman Mike Quigley, who was on-hand for the mural's unveiling in Wrigleyville.
Three generations of Iranian women appear in the work, which depicts them choosing not to veil their hair in a way that meets the standards of the country's leadership.
Mahsa Amini died in police custody after doing the same.
The artist behind it is Iranian and has chosen to remain anonymous for fear of her safety.
But local muralist Natalie Shugailo brought her design to life.
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"I don't even know [the artist's] name," said Shugailo. "I wasn't told. I think it's that connection of how important it is for women across the world to unite in these different types of ways."
"We are so grateful that we're able to express ourselves publicly in this way, which is something that's not permitted everywhere in the world," said Shermin Kruse, Executive Producer of TEDxWrigleyville, which facilitated the installation.
"To think of these women who might be getting arrested and killed just for wanting to be different and wanting to have basic human rights, it really means a lot to bring light to that," said Shugailo.
If you want to see it for yourself, the mural is located on Clark Street, just south of Addison and steps away from Wrigley Field.