The U.S. Congress is considering resolutions that condemn the government of Iran’s state-sponsored persecution of the members of the Bahá’í Faith and its continued violation of the International Covenants on Human Rights.

House Resolution 220 and Senate Resolution 148 call on the government of Iran to release the seven imprisoned Bahá’í leaders held for seven years, 12 imprisoned Bahá’í educators*, and all other prisoners held on account of their religion.

The Yaran, seven Baha’i leaders jailed in 2008.

The congressional actions also urge the President and the Secretary of State to utilize available authorities, including the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010, to impose sanctions on officials of the government of Iran and other individuals directly responsible for serious human rights abuses, including abuses against the Bahá’í community.

The House action has been co-sponsored by 19 congressmen, and the Senate action has been cosponsored by nine Senators. No members of the Alabama House and Senate congressional delegation have responded to requests from Alabama Baha’is to add their voice to the injustice against Bahá’ís and others jailed for their religious beliefs.

* Four of the educators were released after the resolutions were introduced in Congress.