Speech by Frances Townsend at Free Iran Rally in Paris

Frances Townsend:

You know, I look out and I see all the amazing women here who are part of the movement, led by the very inspiring Mrs. Rajavi. Thank you for having me here.  Thank you for inviting me to come back and join you.

You know, history tells us that women have led this resistance. And at all levels of the NCRI women have led this movement. And we see that continuing today in the streets of Tehran where women are refusing the mullahs’ directive to wear the veil, despite being hurt they are taking off the veil.

They are defying the mullahs, and they continue to need your support to do that. Women will continue to lead this movement.  And it is among the greatest threats to the current regime.

And for a moment, let me just say this to the young women. Mrs. Rajavi in her remarks spoke about the roses. The young women in the audience today, your mothers, your grandmother have led this fight. You are the roses of the future that will lead us to a free Iran.

I could not help but be inspired by seeing the Ashraf three women on the screen today speak to us from there.  To them we say we are proud of your courage, we are inspired by your courage, and women will continue to lead the way and fight for you and fight for the women in Tehran.  Thank you.

Frances M. “Fran” Fragos Townsend is the former Homeland Security Advisor to United States President George W. Bush and a TV personality. Townsend was appointed to this position by President Bush on May 28, 2004. Her resignation was announced November 19, 2007. She chaired the Homeland Security Council and reported to the President on homeland security policy and counterterrorism policy. She previously served as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor for Combating Terrorism. In 2008, Townsend joined CNN as a contributor.Townsend is president of the Counter Extremism Project.