The first-ever ministerial to advance religious freedom was hosted by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to press for greater religious freedom in hopes of “producing real, positive change.”

Amirizadeh and Rostamour spoke on the second day, which was dedicated to convening religious leaders and survivors of religious persecution. These individuals shared their personal stories and expertise to promote change.

“It was an honor to participate in this conference where all government representatives from different nations with different religions gathered together in peace to find solutions to end religious prosecutions and human right violations in their countries,” said Maryam Rostamour.

“We, as two of the survivors of religious persecution had the chance to share our personal experiences and advocate for other religious minorities in our country in front of government representatives,” said Marziyeh Amirizadeh.

The two spoke about their arrest by the Islamic Republic of Iran, where they were imprisoned for 259 days and sentenced to execution by hanging for being Christian.

They detailed their account in Captive in Iran: A Remarkable True Story of Hope and Triumph amid the Horror of Tehran’s Brutal Evin Prison.

Amirizadeh and Rostamour are currently completing their one-year master's in International Affairs. Following graduation, they hope to work for the State Department to press for greater human rights reform and religious freedom.

To watch their presentation at the Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom beginning on minute 19, please go to the Department of State’s Facebook page.