lesbian filmmaker faces death

still from cul de sac

in a questionable case of life imitating art or art imitating life: out lesbian iranian filmmaker kiana firouz has been refused asylum in the UK following the london premiere of her autobiographical documentary film "cul de sac" illustrating her quest to seek protection from iranian law where homosexuality is a crime punishable by death. 


the british home office are aware that her open sexuality will most likely result in the most severe reprimand from iranian authorities. her following appeal was overturned & the decision of her future now hangs in the balance based on an appeal of the judge's decision.


her gamble was a brave one where she has courted publicity for her cause potentially at her personal peril. many insiders & objective commentators believe that she will die if forced to return to iran where segments of her film have been leaked to national intelligence. not only does her film illustrate the sexuality issues considered to be an affrontery to iranian beliefs but it also criticises the regime. not a traditionally good combination...


the punishment for lesbian sex in iran is death by hanging, following three sentences of 100 lashes. just to make sure.


please sign the petition to help her voice be heard.


UPDATE: kiana firouz's full statement is here.