Writings
Soundtrack of the Revolution: The Politics of Music in Iran – Nahid Siamdoust
Music was one of the first casualties of the Iranian Revolution. It was banned in 1979, but it quickly crept back into Iranian culture and politics. The state made use of music for its propaganda during the Iran–Iraq war. Over time music provided an important political space where artists and audien…
The New York Times
Opinion | A Musician Revered by Iranians, But Banned by the State (Published 2020)
Mohammad Reza Shajarian’s politics were almost never explicit, but the Iranian people knew he stood with them.
Opinion | Why Iranian Women Are Taking Off Their Head Scarves (Published 2018)
For years, Iranian women have made protests against compulsory hijab secondary to their fight. Now, young women are making it central.
Foreign Policy
Why Is Iran’s Regime So Afraid of This Song?
The crowdsourced protest anthem “Baraye” has become a thorn in the side of the theocratic government in Tehran.
Atlantic Council
Down the ‘Rathole’: How a rapper channels Iran regime change discourse
Both the content of Toomaj Salehi’s hard-hitting rap songs, as well as the debates they have produced, speak to a transformed Iranian media landscape.
Foreign Affairs
“Tune in to my engaging podcast series where we explore thought-provoking conversations with thought leaders, experts, and inspiring guests, delivering insightful content that fuels your curiosity and sparks meaningful discussions.”
