SCL Commends Congressional Statement Condemning Violent Repression of Musicians

The Society of Composers & Lyricists welcomes the strong statement entered into the Congressional Record on July 20, 2026 by Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Musicians’ Caucus. In the statement, titled “Condemning the Violent Repression of Musicians,” Rep. Doggett expresses profound concern over reports that Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi has been sentenced to public flogging solely for performing without adhering to government-imposed dress requirements—an act of artistic expression, not violence or incitement.

Rep. Doggett underscores that creators should never face physical punishment, imprisonment, or violence for sharing their work. He places the case in historical context, citing the persecution of Chilean songwriter Víctor Jara, the censorship of Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich, and the repeated targeting of Nigerian musician Fela Kuti as reminders that the suppression of artistic voices often signals broader assaults on fundamental freedoms. The statement specifically recognizes and appreciates the ongoing efforts of the Society of Composers & Lyricists, alongside the National Music Council of the United States and the Songwriters Guild of America, in bringing such cases of persecution to public attention.

The Society of Composers & Lyricists stands in full solidarity with this affirmation of artistic freedom. Regardless of nationality, ideology, or political viewpoint, musicians, composers, songwriters, and other creators must be free to create and perform without fear of physical retaliation from their governments. We thank Rep. Doggett and the Congressional Musicians’ Caucus for elevating this critical principle and for acknowledging the work of organizations committed to defending music creators worldwide.