Entry into Revolutionary Movements
By the 1960s, Vida Hajji Tabrizi had become captivated by the revolutionary fervor sweeping across South America. Inspired by the ideals of figures like Che Guevara, she began her political activism in Venezuela, where she joined the Latin American guerrilla movement. This marked the beginning of her deep engagement with global leftist struggles.
She later traveled to Cuba, where she received guerrilla training, and to Algeria, where she participated in leftist activities. Her involvement with these movements brought her into close contact with key revolutionary leaders, including Fidel Castro. Her connection with Castro was significant, as it reflected her stature within the global Marxist community.
Political Activism in Homeland
Returning to Iran, Vida joined the Iranian People’s Revolutionary Guards Organization, a leftist group opposed to the Shah’s regime. Her activism made her a target of the SAVAK, Iran’s notorious secret police. In 1972, she was arrested and imprisoned for her political activities.
Vida spent six years in prison, from 1972 to 1978, enduring harsh conditions and severe interrogation. Despite the challenges, she emerged as a symbol of resistance. Her imprisonment caught the attention of international human rights organizations, and in 1977, Amnesty International recognized her as “Prisoner of the Year.” This recognition brought global awareness to the plight of political prisoners in Iran and solidified Vida’s status as a prominent revolutionary figure.