Satrapi came to France in 1994 and is best known for her comic book and film "Persepolis". Accepting the award, France's highest state honor, goes against her principles, explains Satrapi in an open letter to Culture Minister Rachida Dati, published on her social media.
"I cannot ignore what I consider to be a hypocritical attitude on the part of France towards Iran", writes Satrapi.
She does not understand how young Iranian dissidents and artists seeking refuge in France are denied visas, while children of Iranian oligarchs "stroll around Paris and Saint Tropez" without problems.
Supporting the women's revolution in the wake of the death of Masha Zhina Amini cannot just be words, emphasizes Satrapi, who claims that what Iranians need is concrete actions.
Not wanting to accept the Legion of Honor should not be interpreted as a hostile act against France, writes Satrapi, who says she loves both her countries.
