Women's Digital Defiance: The Power of Hashtags in Iran

In Iran, women are using social media to challenge old rules. After Mahsa Amini's death in 2022, many took to X, known before as Twitter, to voice their opinions. They use hashtags to fight against strict hijab laws. This isn't just about fashion. It's about power and freedom. Hashtags are more than just words. They are tools. Women use them to show their resistance. They also use them to build a sense of community. This helps them feel stronger and more united. It's a way to stand up against authority. Researchers looked at 20 hijab-related hashtags from 2018 to 2023. They found that these hashtags do more than spread messages. They help women express themselves. They also help shape how women see themselves. This is important in a country with strict rules. Using social media can be risky. But for many women, it's worth it. They use it to fight for their rights. They use it to show the world what's happening. It's a way to challenge the government and its rules. This resistance is not just political. It's personal too. Women are using hashtags to create a new identity. They are using them to show their strength. They are using them to show that they won't be silenced.