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Demonstrators in Bellevue join protests after death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in Iran

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Hundreds of people flooded the streets of Bellevue on Sunday to protest the Iranian government after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini.

Amini died in police custody earlier this month after she was arrested for allegedly not wearing her hijab properly.

Authorities say Amini died of a heart attack. But, her family is not convinced and holds the police responsible for her death.

Now, protesters are speaking out across the globe.

“I came to support the Iranian people and find justice for Mahsa and all the people she represents,” said Nilu Jenks, who attended one of Sunday’s protests. “It is absolutely ridiculous for someone to die over a piece of cloth … especially when they’re 22-years-old.”

Two different protests took place in Bellevue on Sunday: one near Downtown Park and another near Bellevue Way.

Many protesters present on Sunday expressed that this is just the start of their movement and they hope to see more participation from those outside the Iranian community in the days and weeks to come.

“If you don’t speak up, then a movement dies,” said Jenks. “‘Silence is violence’ is the very meaningful, but important phrase, and very true. So, that’s our job.”