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Toronto Rally Shows Solidarity with Iran Protests

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 12:30 GMT by Toronto Star
      Locale: Ontario, CANADA

Toronto, Ontario - February 14th, 2026 - An unprecedented gathering is expected in Toronto today as an estimated 200,000 people converge on Queen's Park in a powerful demonstration of solidarity with the ongoing protests sweeping across Iran. The rally, planned to commence at 1:00 PM EST, is poised to become one of the largest demonstrations in Toronto's history, reflecting the deep concern and fervent support within the Iranian-Canadian community - and increasingly, across the broader Canadian public - for the fight for freedom in Iran.

The protests in Iran were ignited by the tragic death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022, while in the custody of Iran's morality police. Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman, was arrested for allegedly violating dress code regulations. Her death quickly became a symbol of the systemic oppression faced by women in Iran and a catalyst for widespread unrest. What began as localized demonstrations rapidly escalated into a nationwide movement demanding significant political and social reforms, and ultimately, a change in the ruling theocratic regime.

"We're expecting this to be one of the largest rallies in Toronto's history," confirmed Ali Khalil, a key organizer of today's event. "The response has been overwhelming. People are travelling from across Ontario, and even from other provinces, to participate. This isn't just about Iranian-Canadians anymore; it's about all Canadians who believe in human rights and the right to self-determination."

The core aims of the Toronto rally extend beyond simply raising awareness. Organizers are actively seeking to condemn the actions of the Iranian government, which have included brutal crackdowns on protestors, widespread arrests, and the imposition of severe restrictions on freedoms of speech and assembly. The rally also serves as a platform to amplify the demands of the Iranian people for fundamental change - demands that include greater political freedoms, economic opportunities, and an end to discriminatory practices.

Escalating Repression & Information Blackout

The situation inside Iran remains dire. According to reports from human rights organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, the Iranian government has implemented a ruthless campaign to suppress dissent. Protesters have been met with live ammunition, tear gas, and mass arrests. Independent reporting is severely restricted, and access to information is heavily controlled.

"The Iranian government has cut off internet access and is cracking down on protests, making it difficult for information to get out of the country," explains Khalil. "They are attempting to silence the voices of the Iranian people, but we will not let them. We are using this rally as a means to circumvent their censorship and share the truth with the world."

This information blackout is a critical concern for the Iranian-Canadian community, many of whom have family members still living in Iran and are desperately worried about their safety. The lack of reliable communication channels has fueled anxieties and intensified the desire to exert pressure on the Iranian government from abroad.

Global Movement & Canadian Political Support The Toronto rally is part of a broader global movement of demonstrations in support of the Iranian protests. Cities across Canada, the United States, Europe, and Australia are hosting similar events, demonstrating the widespread international concern over the situation in Iran.

Significantly, the rally has garnered support from members of the Canadian Parliament. Several MPs are expected to attend and deliver speeches, lending political weight to the cause and signaling a unified stance against the Iranian government's actions. Discussions are also underway regarding potential parliamentary motions condemning the Iranian government and exploring avenues for increased diplomatic pressure.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Momentum

Organizers emphasize that today's rally is not a one-time event, but rather a stepping stone towards a sustained campaign to support the Iranian people. Plans are in development for ongoing advocacy efforts, including lobbying government officials, raising funds for human rights organizations working in Iran, and continuing to amplify the voices of protesters through social media and other platforms.

The sheer scale of the expected turnout in Toronto underscores the growing awareness and concern surrounding the situation in Iran, and highlights the powerful role of diaspora communities in advocating for change in their home countries. Today, Toronto stands with Iran, demanding justice, freedom, and a future where the voices of the Iranian people are finally heard.