January 27, 2026
City Council
DATE: January 27, 2026
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Councilmember Soheila Bana
Subject:
Resolution in Solidarity with the People of Iran in Their Struggle for Human Rights, Economic Justice, and
Democratic Freedoms
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this item.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None.
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
A resolution to express the City of Richmond’s solidarity with the people of Iran in their ongoing struggle for
human rights, freedom, and economic justice;
condemning violence against peaceful protesters; and
affirming the City's commitment to a "Hands Off Iran"
policy that opposes foreign military intervention and
supports the Iranian people’s right to self-determination.
This resolution is in line with Richmond’s longstanding commitment to justice, human rights, and peace. It aligns with the City’s values and historical record of standing in solidarity with global struggles for equity and democracy.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
ADOPT a resolution expressing the City of Richmond’s
solidarity with the people of Iran in their ongoing struggle for human rights, freedom, and economic justice;
condemning violence against peaceful protesters; and
affirming the City's commitment to a "Hands Off Iran"
policy that opposes foreign military intervention and
supports the Iranian people’s right to self-determination - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490).
AGENDA
REPORT
January 27, 2026
DISCUSSION:
In recent years, and especially in 2025, Iran has witnessed widespread protests led by workers, students, women, and ordinary citizens demanding change in response to inflation, systemic oppression, political repression, and deteriorating economic conditions. What began as protest against economic hardship has evolved into a broader movement calling for dignity, accountability, and freedom.
Despite public statements by newly elected Iranian President Pezeshkian promising reform, the government has continued to respond with violent crackdowns on peaceful demonstrations, further deepening fear, grief, and trauma among Iranian families.
Across Iranian society—from the bazaars to the universities—the call for justice remains strong. Iranian Americans and human rights advocates have urged elected officials at all levels of government to acknowledge this uprising as a legitimate demand for democratic change and to stand in solidarity with the people of Iran while rejecting any outside interference that might co-opt or escalate the struggle.
This resolution is in line with Richmond’s longstanding commitment to justice, human rights, and peace. It aligns with the City’s values and historical record of standing in solidarity with global struggles for equity and democracy.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Resolution