Join us for an evening of discussion and  film, followed by refreshments and an opportunity to mingle in the lobby and learn more about the “Education is not a Crime” campaign.

About To Light a Candle:

Through personal stories and dramatic archive footage, To Light a Candle gives a powerful account of minority groups in Iranian society, and the resilience and pride among these groups through their passion for education. Since its establishment in Iran in 1987 the informal Baha’i Institute of Higher Education (BIHE) has championed equality and non-violence and garnered support from educationalists around the world to further its aim. Forbidden from attending or teaching at universities in Iran after the 1979 Islamic revolution, the students and teachers of these minority groups face enormous obstacles: classes are held at people’s houses in secret, with the threat of arrest as part of everyday life. Through compelling interviews, personal stories and exclusive archive material – brought out of Iran at great personal risk – the film shines a light on the community and exposes the brutality of Iran’s extreme leaders who view education as a crime. To Light a Candle is a testament not only to the spirit and determination of these minorities in Iran, it highlights how education can play a vital role in supporting communities and sustaining hope.

Tickets $10 (includes all service charges) through Universe

About the Laurier Institution: The Laurier Institution is a national, non-profit, membership-based, charitable organization. Our mission is to advance and disseminate knowledge about the economic and social implications of Canadian diversity. We believe that Canada’s strength is in its unity and diversity.