| Press Statement Sean McCormack, Spokesman Washington, DC August 4, 2006 Iran: Centennial Anniversary of the Constitutional RevolutionTomorrow marks the centennial anniversary of the Iranian Constitutional Revolution, the first of its kind in the Middle East. The August 5, 1906 decree, which called for the creation of an elected parliament, the Majlis, serves as a defining political moment for advancing the democratic ideas it represented. Iranian nationalists set forth a powerful and revolutionary concept: a written constitution founded on the rule of fair and just laws, providing for a free press and respect for individual rights. This short-lived but noble constitutional movement was a significant victory for Iranian democracy and for the cause of freedom in the Middle East. Since 1906, Iranians from all walks of life have continued the struggle against unchecked power, corruption, and wide disparities in wealth. The United States supports the aspirations of the Iranian people for an open society that encourages debate, allows for freedom of the press, champions human dignity and ensures justice, the rule of law and government accountability. Americans believe in liberty and democracy for Iran and commemorate one hundred years of ongoing struggle toward a truly democratic state worthy of its great people. 2006/736
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