A New Year
Ali Sadr
What secret is this, that every spring
comes with the mourning of our hearts?
For the earth, each year, is stained with the blood of swallows
and thus, upon the scorched bosoms of the grieving
grief adds to grief.
(H. A. Sayeh)
This year, too, we begin the new year with the turmoil of war and the sorrow of losing loved ones. I don’t know what may have happened by the time you read these pages. In this era, logical and principled predictions are no longer feasible. We deal with people whose opinions may change at any moment. Therefore, the tension and worry about another massacre and mass killings, whether in the form of war and external forces’ attack or the regime’s repression of protesters, are severe. This crisis, however, differs fundamentally from previous crises. Regardless of the final outcome, the wound of the massacre of thousands in Dey 1404 (January-February 2026) will remain in the heart of the Iranian nation. Until now, the exact number killed due to the internet blackout and information suffocation in Iran is not clear. The undeniable truth is that the death toll over the two unprecedented nights was enormous. These massacres have been strongly condemned by most countries and human rights organizations, but whether three thousand or thirty thousand, not a single person should have been killed.
The recent protests, which began due to price increases and the collapse of the “Rial,” quickly reached an unprecedented peak. Simultaneously, Iranian groups abroad with different inclinations and views held demonstrations, and in several major cities they managed to bring together tens of thousands of people and attracted the attention of local and national press and television.
Here, I must raise a point: as the Persian Cultural Center (PCC), a registered, non-political, non-religious, non-profit organization, we must operate within the constraints set for us by the federal government when dealing with internal and external political currents. Therefore, the focus of our activities and discourse must be in general terms such as cultural-artistic issues, human rights, peaceful coexistence, and non-violence. During the thirty-eight years of PCC’s existence, some fellow citizens have asked PCC to take a stance on this or that political issue and to participate directly in political processes in support or protest. PCC has always respectfully explained that such activities are beyond its legal mandate.
In these past weeks, several fellow citizens and members have shared their opinions about PCC’s programs via email or in person. Some urged cancelling of all programs, while others encouraged PCC to hold cultural programs and provide a gathering space during these difficult days. PCC believes that organizing cultural and artistic activities is one of the most effective ways of fighting tyranny and dictatorship, which for years has clashed with the vibrant culture of Iran due to backward thinking. In this regard, PCC has always adjusted its upcoming programs to the day’s conditions. This year, the grand annual Nowruz celebration and cheerful programs were canceled, while other rich artistic and cultural programs will be held. PCC will use this platform to honor the imprisoned and fallen, hoping that a space will be created for gatherings in this difficult period.
On the evening of Friday, January 30, PCC, together with HOI and the AIAP, held a candlelight vigil to honor loved ones killed in Iran. More than three hundred fellow citizens gathered at the Iranian American Center, lit candles, listened to patriotic music, and consoled one another in mourning for Iran.
Immediately after learning of the recent massacre, PCC announced that it stands with the Iranian people and expressed its deep concern for the security and health of compatriots who are grappling with harsh and unjust conditions. The message stated, “As a cultural organization committed to preserving and celebrating Iran’s cultural heritage, we affirm our belief in the people’s right to freedom, human rights, justice, and security. Our hearts are with Iranians, both those who live in Iran during these hard days and those who stand with us in worrying about their loved ones there.”
In these thirty-eight years, we, as the Persian Cultural Center, have stood beside you and the Iranian people. One of the important reasons for PCC’s survival and success has been that, while operating within our legal framework, we have been able to offer high-quality cultural programs to the San Diego Iranian community. Of course, the officials and staff of this institution may personally hold any belief or creed, but within PCC they are obliged to adhere to the PCC’s charter. PCC’s duty is to honor and elevate the dynamic culture of Iran in this corner of the world, for compatriots who feel a connection and attachment to this culture.
In conclusion, in honor of Nowruz, I hope that this spring brings peace, calm, and health to the world, and especially to the mournful people of Iran.
