TORONTO — Roman Baber, Member of Parliament for York Center, spoke passionately at an anti-Iranian regime rally at Mel Lastman Square on June 23, urging Canadians and the international community to stand with the Iranian people in their fight for freedom.
Baber condemned the Iranian government’s human rights abuses and emphasized the critical moment faced by the people of Iran. “Either you’re on the side of freedom for the people of Iran, or you side with the psycho thugs who torture and murder them,” Baber said to a cheering crowd.
Speaking about the broader Middle East, Baber expressed hope for liberation from oppressive groups across the region. “The people of Gaza were liberated from Hamas. The people of Lebanon were liberated from Hezbollah. The people of Syria were liberated from Bashar al-Assad. And finally, God willing, the great Persian people will be liberated from the Ayatollahs,” he said.
Baber highlighted the ongoing repression by the Iranian regime’s security forces, including the Basij militia, which he accused of torturing and murdering dissenters. “These thugs that perpetrate these crimes should never be allowed any lawful refuge anywhere,” he declared. He drew attention to the presence of approximately 700 alleged Iranian regime agents in Canada, a situation he criticized as being tolerated under the current government.
In a direct appeal to elected officials and governments, Baber called for unequivocal support of Iranian self-determination. “Any city councillor, any member of Parliament, any government in the world, right now is the time to stand for the freedom of the Iranian people. Nothing else will do,” he said.
Baber also invoked the timing of the rally during Pride Month, contrasting the freedoms celebrated in Canada with the repression in Iran. “Let’s stand up for those rights in Iran, where people do not get executed for loving who they love, or women do not get beaten up on the streets.”
He read a message from Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, who expressed hope that the Iranian people will overthrow the regime, bringing peace to the region. “A free Iran will also bring peace. It will put an end to this horrible war,” Baber quoted.
Everybody needs to be put to a decision right now. Either you're on the side of freedom for the people of Iran or you side with the psycho thugs who torture and murder them.
— Roman Baber (@Roman_Baber) June 23, 2025
Proud to support our Persian friends at Mel Lastman Square. Watch ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/ejzBKThJGY
The rally drew support from a diverse crowd united in opposition to the Iranian regime and in support of human rights and freedom for Iranians.
This article is based on verified information from the office of MP Roman Baber, statements made at the Mel Lastman Square rally, and official communications from the Conservative Party of Canada.