Ms. Pelosi spoke about the moral obligation of freedom-loving people everywhere to protect human rights. She said, “This international gathering honors that responsibility.  We must champion the building blocks of peace and prosperity and freedom of speech, religion and the press in Iran and around the world. I’m proud to say that my state of California is home to more than a half of all Iranian-Americans. Their energetic contributions make America more American.”

She talked about the role that women, students and minorities will play in the future of Iran. “Their persecution must end.” she stated. “This gathering is important to advancing the cause of human rights and freedom. The United States is committed to achieving progress in the international community in this respect, and the Iran Nuclear Agreement signals a new era of security and stability in the region and around the world.”

Ms. Pelosi finished by saying that the contributions of all Iranians must be valued in Iran, and until they are, there is still work to be done. “Thank you for your work and leadership, thank you for your service, and thank you for your commitment to democracy.”

Tens of thousands of Iranians and their international supporters attended the “Free Iran” rally in Paris on July 9, which saw international support for the 10-point plan of Iranian opposition leader Maryam Rajavi for a future free and democratic Iran.