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Elnaz Rekabi

Esteemed rock climber known for challenging Iran's mandatory veil rule
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Elnaz Rekabi is an Iranian sport climber who competed in the 2022 IFSC Climbing Asian Championships in Seoul, South Korea, without wearing a hijab.

This was in violation of Iran's mandatory hijab rule, and it was widely interpreted as a deliberate act of protest against the regime and in support of the Mahsa Amini protests. After the competition, Rekabi returned to Iran, where she faced criticism and backlash from some conservative circles for her decision to compete without a hijab.

However, she also received widespread support and admiration from many Iranians and international observers for her activism and dedication to breaking down gender barriers in sports.

Rekabi's decision to compete without a hijab drew attention to the ongoing struggle for women's rights in Iran and sparked discussions about the impact of sports on social and political change.

Her activism and dedication to breaking down gender barriers in sports have made her an inspirational figure for many young girls and women in Iran and around the world.

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