Mahsa Piraei is the daughter of Minoo Majidi, a 62-year-old mother of three who was killed by Iranian security forces on September 20, 2022, during the nationwide protests following the death of Mahsa Amini. Minoo Majidi was one of many protesters who took to the streets in Kermanshah to demand freedom and justice, only to be met with brutal repression by the regime.

At Minoo Majidi’s funeral, Mahsa’s sister, Roya Piraei, cut her hair and held the cut strands in her hand—a powerful act of mourning and defiance. The image of Roya’s protest became an international symbol of resistance, inspiring women across the world to cut their hair in solidarity with Iranian women.

In the wake of her mother’s killing, Mahsa Piraei became a strong advocate for justice. She has spoken out against the Iranian regime, participated in rallies and protests, and delivered speeches demanding accountability for her mother and other victims of state violence. Through her activism, she continues to amplify the voices of those fighting for freedom and human rights in Iran, ensuring that her mother’s sacrifice—and the sacrifices of countless others—will not be forgotten.