In a bold act of defiance against Iran’s harsh anti-LGBTQ+ laws, the Australian embassy in Tehran recently celebrated the annual “Wear it Purple Day.” This gesture is particularly striking given that homosexuality is strictly banned in Iran, with offenders facing severe penalties, including the death sentence.
The embassy marked the event by posting on Instagram, featuring Ambassador Ian McConville and his staff participating in “Wear it Purple Day.” The celebration was visually highlighted with purple decorations and homemade cupcakes.
The post underscored the embassy’s unwavering commitment to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth, stating, “Today, and every day, we’re dedicated to creating a supportive environment, where everyone, especially LGBTQIA+ youth, can feel proud to be themselves. Let’s keep championing diversity and inclusion for a brighter, more inclusive future 🤝🏳️🌈.”
This public display of support is particularly significant in Iran, where same-sex relationships are punishable by death for men and by severe physical punishment, including 100 lashes, for women. Repeat offences can also result in the execution of women, reflecting the Islamic Republic’s strict interpretation of Shia Islamic law.
Joining the Australian embassy in this show of defiance, the German embassy in Tehran responded to the Instagram post with purple heart emojis, further highlighting the unified stance of these Western diplomats.
The U.S. State Department has repeatedly expressed concerns over the treatment of LGBTQI+ individuals in Iran, citing numerous instances where Iranian security forces have harassed, arrested, and detained people suspected of being LGBTQI+. The authorities have also conducted raids on private residences and monitored online activities to identify LGBTQI+ individuals.
In a high-profile case in 2022, LGBTQ activists Zahra Sedighi-Hamedani and Elham Choubdar were sentenced to death on charges of “corruption on earth through the promotion of homosexuality.” Although their sentences were eventually overturned, the activists faced significant persecution. Sedighi-Hamedani managed to flee the country, while Choubdar was later imprisoned to serve a three-year sentence.
While Iran allows individuals to change their gender markers on official documents following gender-affirming surgery, this is often cited as evidence of tolerance. However, critics argue that the Islamic Republic exploits sex-reassignment surgery to suppress and eliminate gays and lesbians from society. Human rights groups estimate that between 4,000 and 6,000 people have been executed in Iran for their sexual orientation since 1979, according to a 2008 WikiLeaks report.
