Through the Lens: Toronto Stands with Iran
More than 350,000 people filled the streets of Toronto to stand in solidarity with the protests happening in Iran. They were not asking for anything unusual. They were asking for freedom, dignity, and basic rights—things every person hopes to have in their own country.
This was not the first rally, and sadly, it was not the first time voices have been silenced. For decades, many Iranians have faced harsh consequences for speaking out. Families, young people, and even children have been affected by events that began as peaceful calls for change.
In Toronto, the Iranian diaspora gathered once again. Some had marched before in the snow. This time, they came out on Valentine’s Day—a powerful reminder that their presence was rooted in love: love for their homeland and love for their people.
As a photographer, my goal was simple: to document the emotion of the day. The faces in the crowd, the flags moving in the winter air, the handmade signs, the quiet tears, and the strong voices. I wanted to capture moments that showed unity, grief, hope, and determination.
I used my Nikon D810 paired with a Sigma 24–70mm lens to photograph this historic gathering. The combination allowed me to move between wide crowd scenes and close, personal portraits—stories within a larger story.
Photography cannot change events on its own. But it can preserve truth. It can hold onto emotion. Lest we forget!
