Source: Airdrie Echo
http://www.airdrieecho.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1586260
With the recently passed anniversary of a painful occasion for the Bahai community and an unfolding development that may escalate matters, Airdrie residents belonging to the faith are speaking out.
According to multiple media reports, seven Baha’i leaders called “the group of friends,” presently jailed in Iran for reasons that the Bahai community are claiming to be unfounded, are now facing charges of espionage for Israel, insulting religious sanctities, and propaganda against Iran, which may result in the death penalty.
Airdrie’s Bahai representatives, who have conveyed their concerns to Wild Rose MP Blake Richards, say there that the lives of innocent people are in danger.
Paymaan Behrouzi, a member of Airdrie’s Bahai spiritual assembly says he is pleased with the active role the Canadian government has taken in the matter, referencing recent comments from Minister of Foreign Affairs Lawrence Cannon, who has called upon Iranian authorities to immediately release the seven Bahai leaders, and to cease harassment of those practicing the Bahai faith.
“Canada continues to urge Iran to fully respect all of its human rights obligations, both in law and in practice,” Cannon said in a prepared statement.
“We remain committed to supporting, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Iran.”
Behrouzi said the Bahai community is grateful for this position by Canadian officials and hopes it can make a difference.