Roya Toloui facts for kids

Roya Toloui (born May 22, 1966) is a brave Kurdish-Iranian journalist and human rights activist. She is also a feminist, which means she believes in equal rights for women. Roya was born in Baneh, a city in western Iran. She studied medical laboratory science at the University of Mashhad. Today, she lives in the United States.

A Voice for Women's Rights

Roya Toloui has dedicated her life to speaking up for others. She became the main editor of Rasan, a monthly magazine written in the Kurdish language. This magazine focused on important issues for women.

Her Work as a Journalist

Rasan magazine was published in Sanandaj, Iran. Five issues came out in the spring and summer of 2005. Sadly, the Iranian government closed the magazine down in the summer of 2005. Roya also started the Association of the Kurdish Women Supporting Peace in Kurdistan. She is also a member of the Kurdish PEN, an organization for writers.

Standing Up for What's Right

Roya Toloui was very open about her opinions. She often criticized the authorities and defended the rights of Kurdish and Iranian women. Because of her strong voice, she faced legal challenges.

Facing Challenges

In April 2005, Roya was put on trial. She was accused of causing problems for national security. Later, on August 2, 2005, she was arrested after protests in Kurdish areas of western Iran. She was held in prison for 66 days. In October 2005, she was finally set free after bail was paid. Her time in prison was highlighted by International PEN in November 2005. This was part of their "Day of the Imprisoned Writer."

Finding Safety and Recognition

After her release, Roya Toloui left Iran. She first went to Turkey and then found safety in the United States in April 2006. In 2006, she received the Oxfam Novib/PEN Award. This award recognizes writers who bravely defend freedom of expression.