In the UK, the media often scapegoat immigrants for the lack of jobs, opportunities, and access to healthcare. In Iran, Afghan refugees face similar blame. But this narrative serves a deeper purpose: to divert attention from the real cause of economic hardship—capitalism. Governments don’t want people to realize that the system is designed to funnel wealth into the hands of a few, while leaving the majority poorer, more anxious, and increasingly desperate. So, the immigrants are always blamed. Meanwhile, industries continue to pollute the air, drain rivers, and cause floods—all while producing goods that many can no longer afford. All this causes people to move to where they might be able to feed their families. In this TEDx talk, Nasrin Parvas, who was imprisoned and tortured in Iran for eight years for her advocacy of women’s and civil rights, sheds light on the struggles of refugees and what must be done to build a freer, more just world. In the UK, the media often scapegoat immigrants for the lack of jobs, opportunities, and access to healthcare. In Iran, Afghan refugees face similar blame. But this narrative serves a deeper purpose: to divert attention from the real cause of economic hardship—capitalism. Governments don’t want people to realize that the system is designed to funnel wealth into the hands of a few, while leaving the majority poorer, more anxious, and increasingly desperate. So, the immigrants are always blamed. Meanwhile, industries continue to pollute the air, drain rivers, and cause floods—all while producing goods that many can no longer afford. All this causes people to move to where they might be able to feed their families. In this TEDx talk, Nasrin Parvas, who was imprisoned and tortured in Iran for eight years for her advocacy of women’s and civil rights, sheds light on the struggles of refugees and what must be done to build a freer, more just world. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx