Dear Comrades and Friends -

I grieve with you at the loss of Meena Rafiq and join with you in celebrating her life. In 1998, Meena helped found the March 8 Organization for Women (Iran-Afghanistan), and I had the joy and honor of meeting many women of March 8 Organization when I participated in the 2006 European March against the anti-woman Islamic theocracy in Iran, as a representative of the Revolutionary Communist Party USA. I share your great sadness today, at the same time knowing that Meena's commitment and courage in fighting for the full emancipation of women and all of humanity will continue to live and inspire others.

At times like today when so few dare to defy authority and challenge oppression, Meena, and the women (and men) of Iran and Afghanistan inspired by her and March 8 Organization, are heroic examples for all those who long for a radically different and far better world. Let us all strive to live lives that make a difference in the world, that contribute to bringing forward a new era where humanity – and the planet – can truly thrive, an era without patriarchy, without the horrors of capitalist imperialism, without oppression and exploitation of any kind. This is how we will honor Meena.

Warmest wishes,

Mary Lou Greenberg

Jan. 19, 2011