Rally at Toronto’s Queen’s Park by supporters of the Iranian Resistance calls on Canada to recognize the extrajudicial killings and lead efforts for accountability amid ongoing repression

Key Demands and Ongoing Repression

Participants remembered every life lost in the 1988 extrajudicial killings and stood with the families still seeking truth and justice. Organizers highlighted that repression has not stopped: 77 executions were recorded in Iranian prisons in July 2026 alone. Speakers emphasized that the people of Iran deserve freedom, justice, due process, human dignity, and the right to determine their own democratic future. A central demand of the demonstrators was the rejection of both monarchical dictatorship and the mullahs’ dictatorship, while stressing that the 30,000 victims of 1988 continue to await accountability.

Speakers Urge Canada to Take Action

Several Members of Parliament and prominent human rights advocates addressed the gathering or sent messages of solidarity. They included The Honourable Judy Sgro, human rights lawyer David Matas, Member of Parliament Dan Muys, Sam Sgro, Member of Parliament James Bezan, The Honourable Irwin Cotler, and Member of Parliament Juanita Nathan. The speakers recognized Canada’s important role in drawing attention to this ongoing crime against humanity and urged the Canadian government to lead international efforts to formally acknowledge the 1988 massacre, call for an immediate halt to executions in Iran, and pursue accountability for the perpetrators.

In closing remarks, organizers expressed deep appreciation for the dedication shown by all participants and supporters to human rights, the freedom of political prisoners, and the Iranian people’s resistance. They thanked those present for their tireless solidarity with political prisoners and their efforts under the banner of #StopExecutionsInIran.