The Tale of Two Nazanins Book Launch and Presentation
One woman's struggle for her life in Iran and the efforts of another in Canada to help her will be explored Monday, June 4, in Halifax.
The launch of The Tale of Two Nazanins, by activist and author Nazanin Afshin-Jam MacKay, is being presented by the Human Rights Commission and the Keshen Goodman Public Library to promote and raise awareness of the importance of human rights. Fifty per cent of Ms. Afshin-Jam MacKay's proceeds from book sales will go toward initiatives that address violence against women and children.
The Tale of Two Nazanins is the story of two women who shared a name but led completely different lives. Nazanin Afshin-Jam MacKay is a Canadian human rights activist and recording artist, who was first runner-up for Miss World. Teen Nazanin Fatehi was facing execution in Iran as punishment for stabbing a man who had tried to rape her. After an e-mail in 2006 brought the two Nazanins together, Ms. Afshin-Jam MacKay worked desperately to save her. The Tale of Two Nazanins is their story.
"Nothing can replace a true story, such as The Tale of Two Nazanins, to make us realize the effect the abuse of human rights can have on people," said commission director and CEO David Shannon. "But at the same time nothing can have the impact of a true story to show us how tenacity and a strong will can overcome those abuses."
"Halifax Public Libraries is delighted to be partnering with the commission in presenting Nazanin Afshin-Jam MacKay and her important work to our community," said Heather MacKenzie, branch manager.
"As a space for all people to have free access to information on ideas and issues impacting our world, the public library is a natural venue for this event. Ms. Afshin-Jam MacKay's book will also be an important addition to our library collection so anyone interested can become more informed about her work. We are honoured to welcome Nazanin to the library."
"Now that I call Nova Scotia home, I am thrilled to be able to share this story with the community that has been so supportive of my work, " said Ms. Afshin-Jam MacKay. "I am hoping that through this book more awareness will spread on the daily human rights injustices people face in Iran and I hope it will inspire others to get actively involved in issues they hold close to their heart."
Ms. Afshin-Jam MacKay will make a presentation and take questions. A reception will follow. The launch begins at 6 p.m. and the library is at 330 Lacewood Dr.