The regime had understood that one person leaving her house while asking herself: Are my trousers long enough?Is my veil in place?Can my make-up be seen?Are they going to whip me?No longer asks herself: Where is my freedom of thought?Where is my freedom of speech?My life, is it liveable?What's going on in the political prisons?
The quote reflects the oppressive environment faced by women under the regime, emphasizing their focus on survival rather than their fundamental rights. It illustrates how the constant fear of physical punishment overshadows thoughts about personal freedoms and individuality. For women, the act of leaving the house becomes fraught with anxiety about their appearance and safety, showing the impact of stringent societal controls on their mental state.
This shift in priorities indicates a systematic suppression of basic human rights, where existential questions about freedom and political justice are overshadowed by concerns over compliance with imposed norms. The regime's strategy effectively distracts individuals from more significant issues, such as the condition of political prisoners, highlighting a profound societal problem where personal dignity and liberty are sacrificed for control.