07/10/2021 Iran (International Christian Concern) – Iran’s unacceptance and persecution of religious minorities often begins in the classroom in childhood. Though Iran claims to not persecute Christians and other minorities, terminology passed down through generations and in textbooks, adds to the discrimination minorities face even in childhood.
Children of minority groups feel the sting of being social outcasts, as others mock their faith, refuse to make friends, and say harmful and ignorant things about minority religions.
As Christians, Baha’i’s and other religious minorities grow up, many must lie or hide their true identities in order to pursue higher education. Higher education often restricts admission based on those who are “najis” or unclean. Those who seek to become teachers themselves, often are disqualified from teaching any Muslim students.
The limitation on education is just another way that Christians face persecution in Iran. Iran remains a major persecutor of religious minorities after the 1979 Islamic Revolution with Christians facing severe prison sentences, fines, and worship restrictions.