A ceremony on Sunday in Saskatoon brought together members of the local Iranian diaspora to remember those killed in the protests that erupted across Iran in January. The gathering was organised by the University of Saskatchewan's Iranian Students' Association and aimed to draw Canadian attention to the scale of the crackdown.
Remembrance event in Saskatoon
Speakers cited estimates that more than 40,000 people have died while demanding freedom and democratic reforms. Sepideh Gorji, a student activist, said the community feels that mainstream coverage in Canada remains limited. "When we talk about the Iranian government we must name the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps," she told the audience. "It is the same terrorist organisation that Canada has listed. We want Canadians to understand that."
Gorji noted that protests have become a weekly occurrence for many in the city since the crackdown began. She described the ceremony as a moment of solidarity that counters the intimidation tactics she says the IRGC attempts to use against the diaspora.
Canadian response to the IRGC
The event underscores a broader debate in Ottawa about how to confront the IRGC's activities abroad. In 2019 the Canadian government designated the corps as a terrorist entity, a move that restricts financial transactions and travel. Activists argue that greater public awareness could strengthen enforcement of those sanctions and encourage political leaders to raise the issue in multilateral forums.
Community members urged Canadians to support Iranian friends by acknowledging the danger the IRGC poses to democracy. "When the wider community recognises the threat, it validates our struggle," Gorji said. "We are not asking for sympathy alone; we want a clear distinction between the revolutionary ideals we seek and the violent tactics of the IRGC."
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence and a call for continued advocacy. Organisers plan to hold similar events throughout the year, hoping to keep the conversation alive in Canadian public life.
Based on reporting by Global News.