For immediate release | December 9, 2022

ALA supports human rights and freedom of expression in Iran

CHICAGO - The American Library Association supports Iranian colleagues and the people of Iran in their efforts for human rights, including women’s rights and freedom of speech and expression.

ALA has adopted into its policies Article 19 of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, which states, "Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media regardless of frontiers."

ALA expresses its solidarity with librarians, teachers and others in the woman-led uprising in Iran for human rights in which hundreds have died and thousands have been detained. ALA encourages members to provide educational materials and other resources and tools to raise awareness in their communities of the current situation in Iran and to combat misinformation.

About American Library Association

The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit ala.org.

Contact:

Raymond Garcia

Communications Specialist

Communications and Marketing Office (CMO)

cmomedia@ala.org