Day May 20, 2026

kurdistan

General Strike: A Lasting Tradition of Resistance in Kurdistan

Since the 1979 revolution, at least 15 major examples of general strikes, protest migrations, and widespread civil disobedience have been recorded in Kurdistan. These moments have repeatedly shown that, in times of repression, executions, and crisis, Kurdish society has maintained…

Sardar Pashaei

Founder & Head of Athletes

Sardar Pashaei is a Kurdish activist, former world wrestling champion, and a relentless advocate for justice. At just five years old, he experienced oppression firsthand, visiting his imprisoned father every Thursday.


Banned from competing internationally due to his political family background, he eventually fled Iran and became a U.S. citizen. He has dedicated his time and voice to supporting the Woman, Life, Freedom movement, working with U.S. Congress, the European Parliament, and international organizations to raise awareness about the Iranian people’s struggle.


His activism has come at a personal cost—his younger brother and sister have both been arrested and tortured in Iran. Today, he leads Justice & Freedom for Iran, bringing together survivors, activists, and athletes to work toward a democratic and secular Iran.