Our Little Iran
By Ali Sadr
In the previous issue, I wrote about the success of the Iranian School and other nonprofit organizations in San Diego in creating a small community, a little Iran. Members of this community share relatively similar interests and values; friendships and family relationships have formed through the gatherings of these organizations. Most members live in a few specific neighborhoods. They often attend cultural events, concerts, and celebrations and meet at least a few times a year, if not every month.
Parents whose children study at the Iranian School greet each other weekly in the parking lot or on the school grounds and participate in school activities. Sometimes, when their children are in class, they gather together for casual conversation. Others meet at monthly events of the Iranian American Center (IAC), such as “Jong e Farhangi,” “Film and Discussion,” “One Poet, One Poem,” or at concerts, art exhibitions, theater shows, and film screenings. Some also attend the meetings of the Association of Iranian American Professionals (AIAP) every last Wednesday of the month at the Sufi restaurant or at other events of this association. Some participate in the programs of the House of Iran. In recent years, apart from NGOs, other artistic and educational institutions have also become active in the city. The Nowruz programs of various organizations attract hundreds of local residents. Once a year, thousands of people participate in the celebrations of Sizdahbedar and Charshanbehsoori. This dynamic community is the “little Iran” we envision.
The survival of this small community, beyond the existence of these organizations, relies on the active support of our compatriots. We all know that Iranians, like other communities, may have varied and even conflicting political views. Despite these differences of opinion, can they collaborate and act unitedly in cultural matters, considering their shared interests? It is hoped that our community, despite its political and class differences, has reached a mental maturity that allows it to defend its common interests in the larger community.
For example, it is speculated that certain anti-Iranian policies, such as the “Muslim travel ban,” may be revived during President Trump’s second term or pressure on Iranian immigrants may increase. Although Mr. Trump talked about fraternity and support for Muslims seeking peace and progress in a meeting with some Muslims in Michigan, there is always potential for anything to happen. If these policies and laws come into effect again, it won’t matter who each individual voted for and which party or candidate they support. Usually, when such strict laws are enforced, all suffer. If such events occur, our only means of defense will be the unity and solidarity of the entire community. In that case, we should contact the officials and representatives of all parties and groups through any means possible to remind them of the legitimacy of the Iranian community and the significant role this community has played in America.
Many speculate that the Israel-Palestine and Lebanon conflict may spread to Iran, which would involve direct U.S. intervention. For this reason, they fear that Iranian residents in the U.S. may face scrutiny and suspicion. Although President Trump has repeatedly stated he does not support a new war and wants an end to the wars in Russia and Israel, other factions may have different views and see the expansion of war as beneficial to their interests. Thus, awareness is necessary.
While the people of America and Iran do not want war, the current conditions do not rule it out. In such a case, Iranian residents in America can express their dissatisfaction in various ways. We have lived in this country for years, accepting it as our second homeland and striving for its prosperity. No one has the right to disregard this matter in any way or trample on our civil rights.
