These images speak volumes. Some are calling it the "Cairo Effect".
FIRST, a photo of an Ahmadinejad supporter. Note the co-opted patriotism/symbolism.
CAPTION:
A female supporter of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad displays her hand painted with the Iranian flag, also used as a sign for his party, at his final election campaign rally, on Azadi street in western Tehran, Iran.
Let's see... co-opting patriotism and wrapping the national flag around a SINGLE party known for fear-mongering and belligerence while painting the other party as God-less traitors. Where have I seen that before? Can't quite place the feeling of deja vu... LOL.
And now the other side...
IMAGES OF HOPE?
Opposition supporters of the pro-reform candidate in Iran's upcoming elections, Mir Hossein Mousavi. Some of whom are probably risking their lives by appearing in public to support their candidate.
I don't know much about the candidate other than that he is being touted as the anti-Ahmadinejad. Perhaps a step in the right direction? Mousavi's Wiki Page
Let's hope Iran follows in Lebanon's recent footsteps!
From The NY Timesabout what may be happening in Iran:
While President Ahmadinejad has grown unpopular for many reasons, including his troubled stewardship of the economy, political analysts said that President Obama had blunted the appeal of Mr. Ahmadinejad’s confrontation with the West. The results in Lebanon may also make it more difficult for Israel to capitalize on fears of Hezbollah dominance and shift the conversation away from the peace process with the Palestinians — a tactic that many analysts here attributed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "I think the speech of Obama in Cairo more likely played a role in neutralizing anti-Americanism," said Khalil al-Dakhil, a sociologist from Saudi Arabia. "It was a positive message. It was a conciliatory message."
RIBBONS OF HOPE:
More quiet demonstrations against extremism in Iran.
And as we look at these images, let us be grateful of our First Amendment rights of Free Speech and freedom of association!!!!