Masih Alinejad is an Iranian-American journalist and women’s rights activist who gained worldwide attention when she removed her hijab and posted a photo on her Facebook page standing proudly with her hair blowing in the wind. My Stealthy Freedom, her 2014 viral social media campaign, sparked a civil disobedience movement against compulsory hijab in Iran.

Today, My Stealthy Freedom is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Iranian women and their freedom. Iranian authorities have responded violently to ongoing activism, harassing and beating protesters, firing into crowds, making arrests, and violating the rights of those in custody.

Currently living in exile in New York, Alinejad continues to oppose Iran’s regime, speak in defense of fellow activists, and offer valuable insights into the protests throughout her country. In recognition of her commitment to human rights, she has received the UN Watch’s International Women’s Rights Award and the American Jewish Committee's Moral Courage Award, among other honors.