Imprisoned Because of a Volleyball Match

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In June, Ghoncheh Ghavami, 25 year-old, dual Iranian and British citizen was arrested along with a dozen other women as they tried to enter a stadium to watch the Iranian national men's team play volleyball. She was subsequently placed in solitary confinement in Tehran's Evin Jail, which has a reputation for holding political prisoners and journalists. 

The Iranian government has banned women from football games since 1979 and has since extended the ban to volleyball since 2012 claiming that the government hopes to protect women from the "lewd behavior of male fans." Amnesty International has called for an Urgent Action for Ghoncheh as they believe she has been put under psychological pressure due to the multiple threats she has received by prison guards and public officials in addition to her unjust confinement. 

Due to current political relationships between the UK Government and Iran, it seems that the UK has been thus far unwilling to help her and relieve the suffering of her family. Her family is hoping that with the pressure of the global community placed upon the UK that she will be released to be with her family once more. 

As a volleyball enthusiast myself, I hope to reach out to all of those who have yet to hear Ghonchech's story. Commit yourself to being part of the community that advocates for the rights of women and make volleyball a safe place for spectators globally!