By Klara Moradkhan
Imagine having a strong desire to help others, and finally getting the opportunity to do so in the country you take pride in and love. Then imagine that same country suddenly imprisoning you, taking you away from your family, your friends and your humanitarian work. This happened to my dear cousin and friend, Silva Harotonian.
Silva, an Iranian citizen of Armenian descent, was working in an administrative role to help implement a maternal and child health program between Iran and the U.S. This program, the Child Health Education and Exchange Program (MCHEEP) of the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX), aims to improve health conditions for mothers and children in Iran. But then on June 26, 2008, Silva’s life was turned upside-down when she was arrested by Iranian authorities.
Silva is no revolutionary. She is a kind-hearted and genuine woman who is passionate about helping others. Growing up, she had a love for literature and art, leading to her studies in Armenian literature at the University of Azad in Tehran and later as a teacher at the Armenian School of Literature. Ask any of her family and friends and we will all attest to Silva’s constant caring and generosity.
Despite having no political background, Silva was accused of plotting a “soft revolution” against the Islamic Republic of Iran. In January 2009 she was sentenced to three years in the infamous Evin Prison, noted for its political prisoners’ wing. At one point, Silva even shared a jail cell with Iranian-American journalist Roxana Saberi, who was released last month.
Next week marks one year since Silva’s arrest. My family and many of Silva’s supporters are using this important anniversary to raise awareness of her imprisonment and continue to urge Iranian authorities to release her. On Wednesday, June 24, family, friends, supporters, colleagues and human rights leaders will come together in Paris to call for Silva’s freedom. We invite all of Silva’s supporters to attend the event and call for her release.
Iranian authorities took everything away from Silva, most importantly, her voice. Now, my family and Silva’s supporters must speak on her behalf to set her free. To learn more about Silva’s story and sign our appeal to respectfully urge the leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran to grant her release, please visit www.FreeSilva.org.
Klara Moradkhan is development director for Children Uniting Nations, a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles dedicated to providing quality mentoring relationships for at-risk and foster youth.
