I know you are afraid
When I stand tall and proud,
when I speak up.
You get angry.
You call me an “infidel”
Because you are afraid.
But why?
I am a woman and you a man.
We both have a place here.
I am not here to occupy yours.
I am here to reclaim my own,
To take ownership of my voice,
My body,
To stand on my own two feet without fear.
You will not fall if I stand.
Why are you fearful?
—
Read this piece in Persian here.