On Wednesday, May 15, 2013, the scene in Grand Central Station’s Vanderbilt Hall felt different. Between the beautiful marble walls, temporary bleachers and a wrestling ring were set up. The high crystal chandeliers glowed over American, Iranian, and Russian wrestlers doing their warm-ups. Fans marched in and eagerly awaited the exhibition of a sport held near and dear to their hearts.

Recently, the International Olympic Committee recommended that wrestling be dropped from the Olympic Games, starting in 2020. Enter a group of wrestling leaders and enthusiasts, who are raising awareness of the sport’s cultural and historical significance through a series of initiatives. This event, dubbed "The Rumble on the Rails," marked the fourth straight year that a New York City landmark was transformed into a wrestling arena to raise money for charity.

Fans were treated to a show of skill and strength throughout the seven one-on-one matches. Iran won the series, taking home six of the seven wins. Though the series win was certainly a plus for the Iranian American fans, it ultimately wasn’t what the day was about. The symbolism behind the event was not lost on the audience, who watched the easy rapport of the athletes as they engaged in friendly competition. Hopefully the rest of the world, and in particular the International Olympic Committee, will take notice as well.

PAAIA would like to thank the New York chapter leaders and members, who helped fans attend the event and also set up a viewing event for those who were unable to get tickets.

To view the event on YouTube, please visit:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI5hBmUWOCo

To view photos of the event, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/sherry.hakimi?ref=tn_tnmn#!/media/set/?set=a.10101307563588972.1073741830.9103731&type=1

For additional coverage of the US-Iran wrestling match, please see:

http://espn.go.com/new-york/story/_/id/9279942/iran-crushes-us-6-1-wrestling-exhibition-new-york-grand-central-terminal

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/-olympics/news/20130514/us-russia-iran-wrestling-exhibition.ap/

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-400_162-57584745/iran-and-u.s-wrestling-teams-meet-in-nyc/

http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/15/raucous-cheers-for-irans-wrestlers-in-grand-central-terminal/

http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/iran-beats-us-6-1-in-wrestling-exhibition-at-grand-central-terminal/2013/05/15/16356d18-bda6-11e2-b537-ab47f0325f7c_story.html

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-22487284

http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2013/05/16/303814/iran-beats-us-61-in-wrestling-exhibition/ 

Abtahi Qualifies for Dallas City Council Runoff

May 14, 2013, Dallas, TX – Two highly successful and qualified Iranian American candidates were on the ballot on Election Day (May 11^th) in Texas.  Bobby Abtahi, seeking to become the first Iranian American to be elected to the city council of Dallas, received enough votes to qualify for a runoff for the position, while Amir Omar, a member of the city council (Place 7) of Richardson, Texas, fell short in his bid to become Richardson’s mayor and the first Iranian American to become a directly elected mayor.

Bobby Abtahi, Candidate for Dallas City Council - Election results gave Bobby Abtahi, former Dallas Plan Commissioner and former City of Dallas community prosecutor, 26% of the vote in District 14 (which includes parts of downtown and East Dallas as well as Oak Lawn), putting him in second place behind Phillip Kingston, who received 34%.  A runoff between Abtahi and Kingston will take place on June 15^th. 

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Abtahi earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and his JD from SMU Dedman School of Law.  After graduating from law school, Abtahi went to work for the city of Dallas as a community prosecutor. 

At City Hall, Abtahi worked to help rebuild deteriorating neighborhoods, and was behind a popular program that used the National Guard to tear down drug houses.  The program, which is a money-saving initiative that the city continues to use, was recognized by the White House in January 2012 when it presented Abtahi with the MLK Drum Major Award for Community Service.  After working for the city, Abtahi started his own private practice but continued to serve Dallas as a member of the city’s plan commission. 

Abtahi’s campaign was endorsed by the Real Estate Council of Dallas, the Metro-Tex Association of Realtors, the Home Builders Associations of Greater Dallas, and the AFL-CIO, as well as a number of former city council members and community leaders throughout the city. 

Amir Omar, Candidate for Mayor of Richardson, Texas - Meanwhile, Richardson city council member Amir Omar lost his bid for mayor to fellow council member Laura Maczka.  Maczka received 71% of the vote to Omar’s 29%.

A first-generation American of Iranian and Palestinian descent, Omar describes himself as the "living proof that the American dream is alive and well." He grew up in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas and attended Texas A&M University, where he majored in industrial distribution.

In 2010, as council liaison to the Richardson Environmental Advisory Commission, Omar championed the "Tree the Town" initiative. With widespread support from corporate and non-profit sponsors, Amir’s initiative has turned into the largest tree planting initiative Northern Texas has ever seen.

In May 2012, the One Man Dallas project named Omar as the winner of the 2012 One Man Dallas Award. Out of 21 nominees, Omar was selected as the one man who best represented the Dallas-Fort Worth area from the perspective of community involvement, personality, intelligence, and fitness.

In the race for mayor of Richardson, Omar’s campaign was endorsed by the Metro-Tex Association of Realtors, the Richardson Police Association, and the Richardson Firefighters Association. 

Both Abtahi and Omar were endorsed and supported by the Iranian American Political Action Committee (IAPAC), the connected PAC of PAAIA. IAPAC supports and promotes the election of candidates for federal, state, and local office, regardless of party affiliation, who are attuned to the domestic needs of the of the Iranian American community. IAPAC also encourages Iranian Americans to actively participate in the American electoral process and supports Iranian American candidates for public office.  

Congress is considering a number of legislative initiatives that may be of interest to the Iranian American community.  The PAAIA Public Policy Center is pleased to provide a round-up on the status of the legislation. In general, PAAIA focuses on bills and congressional actions concerning three areas: civil liberties, foreign policy towards Iran, and immigration.  PAAIA recognizes that it is important that Iranian Americans be informed about legislative initiatives in these areas and the positions that their members of Congress take concerning them.

Bills & Resolutions

Immigration

S. 169:  I-Squared Act of 2013/Immigration Innovation Act of 2013

On January 29, 2013, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) introduced S.169, also known as the I-Squared Act of 2013 or the Immigration Innovation Act of 2013. The legislation has gained a total of 26 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators Richard Burr (R-NC), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

S.169 would permit an increase or decrease of H-1B visa quotas based on the economy (the quota is between 65,000 and 115,000 visas), and dependent H-1B spouses could apply for work authorization. The bill would allow nonimmigrant workers with E, H, L, O, and P visas to renew the visas as long as the workers remained eligible for them, and give students a means to pursue permanent residence in the U.S. Previously approved but unused immigrant visas from previous years could be used in the current year.  Visa quotas for employment-based immigrant visas would be lifted for dependents of employment-based immigrant visa holders, certain researchers and professors, persons of ability and talent, and U.S. STEM advanced degree holders. Visa quotas based on per-country limits for employment-based visa petitions would be lifted.  Additionally, funds which are raised from H-1 visas and employment-based immigrant visas would be used to support science, engineering, technology, and math education, and to retrain workers in the U.S.

S.301:  Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013

On February 13, 2013, Senator David Vitter (R-LA) introduced S.301, also known as the Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 3 co-sponsors--Senators Vitter, John Boozman (R-AR), and Mike Lee (R-UT)--and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

S.301 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to consider a person born in the United States "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States for citizenship at birth purposes if the person is born in the United States of parents, one of whom is: (1) a U.S. citizen or national, (2) a lawful permanent resident alien whose residence is in the United States, or (3) an alien performing active service in the U.S. armed forces.  H.140 is the House version of S.301.

S. 303: STEM Jobs Act of 2013

On February 13, 2013, Senator David Vitter (R-LA) introduced S.303, also known as the STEM Jobs Act of 2013.  The legislation has one sponsor (Senator Vitter), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

The STEM Jobs Act  would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to make up to 55,000 visas available in fiscal year 2014 and subsequent fiscal years to qualified immigrants who: (1) have a doctorate degree in a field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM degree) from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education; and (2) have taken all doctoral courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The act makes any such unused visas available to aliens who: (1) hold a master's degree in a STEM field from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education that was either part of a master's program that required at least two years of enrollment or part of a five-year combined baccalaureate-master's degree program in such field; (2) have taken all master's degree courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States; and (3) hold a baccalaureate degree in a STEM field or in a field included in the Department of Education's Classification of Instructional Programs taxonomy within the summary group of biological and biomedical sciences. 

The STEM Jobs Act would also eliminate the diversity immigrant program.

A similar bill, H.R. 459, has been introduced in the House.

S.J. RES. 4: A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to United States citizenship

On January 23, 2013, Senator David Vitter (R-LA) introduced S.J. RES. 4. The legislation currently has 1 sponsor (Senator Vitter) and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

The resolution proposes that the Constitution be amended so that those born in the U.S. are no longer automatically U.S. citizens.  Under the proposal, such persons would only be citizens if one of their parents was a citizen, an alien “lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States who resides in the United States,” or an alien actively serving in the Armed Forces, or if they themselves (as opposed to either of their parents) became naturalized citizens.

H.R. 140: Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013

On January 3, 2013, Representative Stephen King (R-IA/4^th) introduced H.R.140, also known as the Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 25 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Jeff Duncan (R-SC/3^rd) and John Campbell (R-CA/45^th), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.140 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to consider a person born in the United States "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States for citizenship at birth purposes if the person is born in the United States of parents, one of whom is: (1) a U.S. citizen or national, (2) a lawful permanent resident alien whose residence is in the United States, or (3) an alien performing active service in the U.S. armed forces. S. 301 is the Senate version of H.R.140.

H.R. 458: Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2013

On February 4, 2013, Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA/49^th) introduced H.R.458, also known as the Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained at total of 1 sponsor (Representative Issa), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.458 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for nonimmigrant status for an alien who is the parent or legal guardian of a United States citizen child if the child was born abroad and is the child of a deceased member of the armed forces of the United States.

H.R.459: STEM Visa Act of 2013

On February 4, 2013 Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA/49^th) introduced H.R. 458, also known as the STEM Visa Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 1 sponsor (Representative Issa), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

The STEM Visa Act  would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to make up to 55,000 visas available in fiscal year 2015 and subsequent fiscal years to qualified immigrants who: (1) have a doctorate degree in a field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM degree) from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education; and (2) have taken all doctoral courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The act makes any such unused visas available to aliens who: (1) hold a master's degree in a STEM field from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education that was either part of a master's program that required at least two years of enrollment or part of a five-year combined baccalaureate-master's degree program in such field; and (2) have taken all master's degree courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The STEM Visa Act would also eliminate the diversity immigrant program.

A similar bill, S.303, has been introduced in the Senate.

H.R.717: Reuniting Families Act

On February 14, 2013, Representative Michael Honda (D-CA/17^th) introduced H.R.717, also known as the Reuniting Families Act.  The legislation has a total of 67 cosponsors, the most recent of whom is Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA/2^nd), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.717 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to help ensure that visas are allocated efficiently, and would reduce the wait times that often keep legal immigrants, and their loved ones overseas, separated for years. The bill would also eliminate discrimination in immigration law against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans and their foreign-born partners.

Foreign Policy

S.559: Justice for Former American Hostages in Iran Act of 2013

On March 13, 2013, Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA) introduced S.559, also known as the Justice for Former American Hostages in Iran Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 2 cosponsors, the most recent of whom is Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S.559 would direct the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a fund that would be used to pay claims of persons who were held hostage for 444 days in Iran (Tehran) when the U.S. embassy was seized there.  Those held hostage (or their family members) could receive $10,000.

S.653: Near East and South Central Asia Religious Freedom Act of 2013

On March 22, 2013, Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) introduced S.653, also known as the Near East and South Central Asia Religious Freedom Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 5 co-sponsors, the most recent of who are Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S. 653 provides for the establishment of a Special Envoy to promote religious freedom for religious minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia. The duties of the envoy would include monitoring and combating acts of incitement and intolerance directed against religious minorities, working to ensure that the economic and security needs of such minorities are met, and working with foreign governments in the Near East and South Central Asia to address laws that are religiously discriminatory. The Special Envoy would be subject to the direction of the President and the Secretary of State.  

A similar bill, H.R.301, has been introduced in the House.

S.892: Iran Sanctions Loophole Elimination Act

On May 8, 2013, Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) introduced S.892, also known as the Iran Sanctions Loophole Elimination Act. The legislation has gained a total of 8 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators Dean Heller (R-NV), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Pat Roberts (R-KS), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

S.892 would amend the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 to impose sanctions regarding foreign currencies.  The bill would deny the Iranian government access to its foreign exchange reserves parked in the banks of other countries, estimated to be worth as much as $100 billion, mostly in euros.  The bill would also impose severe penalties on any foreign financial institution that conducts foreign exchange transactions on behalf of Iran’s central bank or other Iranian entity that is already blacklisted by other sanctions. S.892 would be retroactive to May 9, 2013, regardless of the passage date.

S.RES.65: Resolution expressing concern about the Iranian nuclear program 

On February 28, 2013, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) introduced S.RES.65, also known as the Graham-Menendez resolution.  Menendez is the name of a cosponsor of the legislation, Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ).  The legislation has gained a total of 91 cosponsors, the most recent of who are Senators Jeff Sessions (R-AL) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and has been placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 43.

S.RES.65 states that U.S. policy is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, supports the implementation and enforcement of U.S. and international sanctions against Iran to achieve that goal, states that the United States is committed to the existence, survival, and security of Israel, and affirms U.S. support for Israel’s right to self-defense. 

S.RES.75: Condemning the Government of Iran for its state-sponsored persecution of its Baha’i minority and its continued violation of the International Covenants on Human Rights

On March 12, 2013, Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) introduced S.RES.75.  The legislation has gained a total of 13 co-sponsors, the most recent of who are Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Dean Heller (R-NV), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S.RES.75 calls on Iran to release all prisoners being held solely on account of their religion.  It calls on the U.S. president and secretary of state, in cooperation with responsible nations, to condemn Iran’s continued human rights violations and demand that prisoners held for their religious beliefs be released.  S.RES.75 also urges the president and secretary to impose sanctions on Iranian government officials and other individuals directly responsible to serious human rights abuses, including abuses against Iran’s Baha’i community. 

S.RES.75 has also been introduced in the House of Representatives as H.RES.109 by Representative Michael G. Grimm (R-NY/11^th), where it has a total of 3 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom is Representative Peter J. Roskam (R-IL/6^th), and has been referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

H.R. 301: Provides for the establishment of the Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia

On January 15, 2013, Representative Frank R. Wolf (R-10th/VA) introduced H.R.301. The legislation has gained a total of 44 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom include Mark Meadows (R-NC/11^th), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA/19^th), Tim Griffin (R-AR/2^nd), and James Lankford (R-OK/5^th), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa.

H.R. 301 provides for the establishment of a Special Envoy to promote religious freedom for religious minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia. The duties of the envoy would include monitoring and combating acts of incitement and intolerance directed against religious minorities, working to ensure that the economic and security needs of such minorities are met, and working with foreign governments in the Near East and South Central Asia to address laws that are religiously discriminatory. The Special Envoy would be subject to the direction of the President and the Secretary of State.  

A similar bill, S.653, has been introduced in the Senate.

H.R. 783:  Prevent Iran from Acquiring Nuclear Weapons and Stop War Diplomacy Act

On February 15, 2013, Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA/13^th) introduced H.R. 783, also known as the Prevent Iran from Acquiring Nuclear Weapons and Stop War Diplomacy Act.  The legislation has gained a total of 19 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX/30^th), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC/At Large), and Louise Slaughter (D-NY/25^th), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa.

H.R.783 directs the President to appoint a high-level U.S. representative or special envoy for Iran who shall: (1) seek to ease tensions and normalize relations between the United States and Iran through bilateral and multilateral negotiations, (2) lead U.S. diplomatic efforts with regard to Iran, and (3) act as liaison with U.S. and international intelligence agencies. The bill also directs the Secretary of State to: (1) rescind the no contact policy with Iran, and (2) establish an office in the Department of State to support the work of the representative or special envoy.

H.R. 850:  Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013

On February 27, 2013, Representative Ed Royce (R-CA/39^th) introduced H.R. 850, also known as the Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013.  The legislation has a total of 312 cosponsors and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.850 would limit business transactions with Iran, increase the list of Iranian companies and individuals affected by existing sanctions, and potentially block Iran from having access to its foreign bank assets which are held in euros.  The bill would punish foreign individuals and companies that violate U.S. sanctions on Iran by threatening them with restrictions on their ability to do business with the United States.  H.R.850 would also designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, and impose sanctions on certain individuals in Iran responsible for or complicit in human rights abuses, engaging in censorship, or engaging in the diversion of goods intended for the Iranian people.

H.RES.89: Condemns the attack on Iranian dissidents living at Camp Hurriya

On February 28, 2013, Representative Ted Poe (R-TX/2^nd), introduced H.RES.89.  The legislation has a total of 60 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom is Representative Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL/24^th), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa.

H.RES.89 condemns the attack against the residents of Camp Hurriya in Iraq, calls on the President to work with Iraq to ensure that the December 25, 2011, Memorandum of Understanding on the temporary relocation and eventual resettlement of the residents of Camp Ashraf is fully implemented and that humanitarian protections for such residents are upheld.  The bill also urges the President to work with Iraq and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to return the residents of Camp Hurriya to Camp Ashraf where they will have more protection from any future terrorist attacks.

H.RES.183: Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Broadcasting Board of Governors should broadcast and direct Azeri language content into Iran and Balochi language content into Iran and Pakistan

On April 25, 2013, Representative Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA/48^th) introduced H.RES.183.  The legislation currently has one sponsor (Representative Rohrabacher), and has been referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

H.R. 183 stated that the Azeri and Baloch peoples have a right to self-determination, and calls for the Broadcasting Board of Governors to broadcast Azeri language material into Iran and Balochi language material into Iran and Pakistan.

Special Category:

H.CONG.RES.27: Supporting the formation of a bipartisan Presidential Commission to study the establishment of a National Museum of the American People

On March 19, 2013, Representative James P. Moran (D-VA/8^th) introduced H.CONG.RES.27.  The legislation has gained a total of 18 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Daniel Lipinski (D-IL/3^rd) and Delegate Gregorio Sablan (D-MP/AL), and has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

H.CONG.RES.27 would create a presidential commission to study the establishment of a National Museum of the American People. The museum would tell the story of all the peoples who came to the United States and contributed to its success and prosperity.  The museum would also serve as a resource to assist state, local, and ethnic museums in presenting exhibits that celebrate the heritage of the people of the United States.

H.RES.130: Recognizes the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz and acknowledging the Cyrus Cylinder as a symbol of respect for human rights and religious tolerance

On March 20, 2013, Representative Henry Waxman (R-CA/33^rd) introduced H.RES.130.  The legislation has a total of 16 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-CA/19^th), Steve Stockman (R-TX/36^th), and John K. Delaney (D-MD/6^th), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa and the House Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights and International Organizations.

H.RES.130 details the impact of the Cyrus Cylinder in history, noting that it has come to symbolize one of mankind’s first documents of human rights, and acknowledges the historical significance of the cylinder’s first tour of the United States in 2013.

May 2, 2013, Washington, D.C. -

Congressman Rohrabacher in the past has introduced resolutions in support of self-determination for the Azeri and Baloch peoples, including their right to have sovereign countries.  In July of 2012, Rohrabacher wrote to then-Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton recommending that the United States support the joining of Iranian Azerbaijanis with the Republic of Azerbaijan. 

In a letter to Rohrabacher and the Department of State, PAAIA expressed its concern regarding the congressman’s recommendations, noting that such a suggestion would not only be detrimental to the interests of the U.S., but would also not be supported by Americans of Iranian descent or the Azeri population living in Iran.  In response, the State Department informed PAAIA that Rohrabacher’s actions reflected his personal opinions and that the policy of the United States respects the existing borders between Iran and Azerbaijan.

House Resolution 183, while non-binding, has been referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Similar to Congressman Rohrabacher’s previous resolutions on this matter, it is not expected to gain much traction.

May 6, 2013, Washington, D.C.

Last Thursday, at the appointment ceremony in the King County courthouse, Governor Jay Inslee described Amini as someone with a high level of expertise as well as a valuable and unique perspective.  “Susan believes strongly in equal access to justice, regardless of a person’s economic status, education level, or disability, and she has worked tirelessly to help eliminate barriers that exist within our court system.”

Born in Iran, Amini was educated at Catholic schools in Tehran and Paris. She received her bachelor's degree from Tehran University and her J.D. degree from the University of Maryland School of Law.

Amini has practiced law for 23 years. Her areas of specialization have included family law, criminal law, and immigration. Amini serves as a King County District Pro Tem judge and as a King County Bar Association Trustee.  She is a member of the Washington State Trial Lawyers, Middle Eastern Legal Association of Washington, and the Bellevue Rotary.

"Susan has served her community with distinction and pride,” explained PAAIA’s Executive Director Saghi Modjtabai. “She has worked for years on behalf of economically disadvantaged clients and advocated for the rights of people with disabilities.  Her dedication to public service serves as a source of inspiration to the Iranian American community.”

In 2008, PAAIA’s connected PAC supported Amini’s bid for the King County Superior Court, Position 1.  Her campaign received the endorsement from judicial and community leaders as well as both the Seattle Post and the Seattle Times. 

Amini is married to Mo Habib, and they currently live in Kirkland, WA.  Their son, Cyrus Habib, is the first American of Iranian heritage to serve in a state legislature and the highest ranking Iranian American in elected office.

Soraya Darabi, 29, was recognized as a “two-time entrepreneur.” Darabi is currently working on her latest start-up, Zady, which has already raised $1.35 million, with the round led by NEA.  Prior to starting Zady, Darabi founded Foodspotting, a geo-local guide for finding quality restaurants, which was acquired by OpenTable earlier this year for $10 million.

Parisa Tabriz, 29, was recognized for her work at Google after also being recognized by Forbes last year. Known as the “Security Princess,” Tabriz is in charge of Google's information security engineering team, which focuses on improving security in the company’sarray of products. She leads the team of hired hackers who hack into the company's products and then teach developers how to secure them.

Lastly, Roxanne Varza was recognized for her work running some of Microsoft's startup-related initiatives in Europe, particularly its BizSpark and Spark programs. Before joining Microsoft, Varza worked as the editor of TechCrunch France. She is also currently Vice President of Business Development and Partnerships for Girls in Tech Global, and she started and currently leads the French and British chapters of the organization.

PAAIA congratulates these individuals on their great work thus far and on representing the Iranian American community’s continued contributions to American society through dedication, passion, and hard work.

May 1, 2013, Washington D.C.

Being one of the only regular sources of demographic information on the Iranian American community, the data contained in the report has great potential for assisting in future research on this community and its evolution. 

According to the survey findings, as a group, Iranian Americans are religiously diverse, and are far more secular than the general U.S. population.  By a nearly two to one margin, those who were questioned stated that their religious identity was “not very strong” (65 percent) as opposed to “very strong” (35 percent). By comparison, in a survey of Americans as a whole released by the Pew Forum in November 2012, the overall picture was reversed.  Fifty-eight percent of respondents said that religion was “very important” in their lives and another twenty-two percent said that it was “somewhat important.”  Only eighteen percent said it was “not too important” or “not important at all.”

While an overwhelming majority of Iranian Americans are from a Muslim background, only thirty-four percent of respondents to the 2013 poll identified themselves as Muslim, consistent with previous polls.  Thirty-two percent identified their religious preference as other.  The percentages of Iranian Americans identifying themselves as Jewish (9) atheist (9) and agnostic (8) in the 2013 survey are all  higher than the percentages of Americans as a whole who identify themselves as one of these religions.  Those results have, generally, been in the low single digits. In this respect, the 2013 survey is, once again, consistent with previous polls commissioned by PAAIA.   From these demographics, one can ascertain that though religion is a significant part of the Iranian American identity, it is not its primary component.

In addition to being more secular, Iranian Americans are more educated than Americans as a whole.  Of those questioned in the 2013 survey, fifty-five percent said they had received a bachelor’s degree or higher.  This figure is consistent with other surveys and studies.  In the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2011 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates, fifty-eight of Iranian Americans age 25 or over were said to have received at least a BA.   In comparison, the percentage of Americans as a whole (also 25 or over) receiving a BA or something higher only surpassed thirty percent for the first time in the 2011 census. 

The education level of Iranian Americans is not a new phenomenon.  A report released in 2004 by the Iranian Studies Group at MIT, drawing on information from the 2000 census, concluded that Iranian Americans are among the best educated ethnic groups in the United States.   Greater education tends to mean greater affluence, and this holds true for the Iranian American community as well.   Similar to previous PAAIA surveys, in the 2013 survey, a majority---fifty-four percent---stated that their annual income was $60,000 or more.  According to Census Bureau data for 2011, the last year currently available, only forty-two percent of Americans as a whole earned at the same rate.  Thirty-two percent of Iranian Americans in the 2013 survey reported a household income of $100,000 or more, whereas the 2011 Census Bureau figures showed only twenty-one percent of Americans as a whole earning that much. 

PAAIA’s surveys, which are used by policy makers, media, and the general public to gain a better understanding of our community, paint the picture of a community that is, in many ways, different from how it is portrayed by mainstream media. The community is diverse,  relatively affluent and with strong connections to their culture and heritage.  In addition to maintaining close ties to the people of Iran, they have assimilated well to the social and economic fabric of America, , and have contributed substantially to the prosperity of the country. It is a source of pride for the community.

Dear generous members of IIE and PAAIA,

My name is Ali Samadian.  I am a graduate international student in the Petroleum Engineering Department at Texas Tech University.

I am writing this letter to express my deepest appreciation to you for this benevolent $2000 scholarship which will help me finish my degree by August.  I was financially in trouble and I was so worried that it was also affecting my performance at school.  But now that I have your generous support I feel relieved and I can focus on my education as effectively as possible. 

According to my original degree plan I would have to take summer classes to graduate, but due to the unexpected critical situation that happened to me, I would not be able to even stay in the US.  Now I will be able to graduate by the end of the summer semester and it would not have been possible without such a great consideration from you.  I may not be able to do anything in return which would be as valuable as this cooperation by you.  The only thing I can do is to study and to work as hard as I can to make your help fruitful.

My Master’s topic relates to Reservoir Stimulation by Hydraulic Fracturing in Well Completion.  My Master’s supervisor is Dr. Mohamed Soliman. He is a prestigious professor and is very resourceful and knowledgeable in this area.  He also used to be the Chair of the Department.  I have learned a lot from him so far and I am going to try my best to do a high-quality project with him.

After my master’s graduation, as I already have admission to the PhD Petroleum Engineering program here at Texas Tech, I am going to take and hopefully pass the PhD qualifying exam.  If possible, I want to continue my research and studies at the PhD level in the same area with Dr. Soliman.  The other possibility is that as the petroleum engineering field is an industrial field, I can find a way to apply the specific knowledge I have gained at school in the fracturing industry.  I will gain a lot of experience in this field as well. 

Again I just want to say thank you for your generosity and for giving me the opportunity to finish my Master’s degree according to my original degree plan.
 
With Respect,
 
Ali Samadian

Vida Tayebati, 25, is a physical theatre artist and actor living in Tehran.  She has arrive on the scene in her home city performing in physical theatre plays such as Blood Wedding, an adaptation of Lorca's classic with director Hossein Sufee, Back, and Hot Water Music with director Milad Shadjiareh, and Khosro-Shirin, an adaptation of “Khosrow and Shirin,” a work by the great 12th-century poet Nezami Ganjavi.   Her theatre education has been largely in the studios of Mr. Alireza Keymanesh, studying the body, movement, and ensemble for the stage.

As she puts it, her education and performances to this point have been considered “underground:” there isn't a place for women to study physical theatre in the university, and religious law makes performance in traditional venues difficult or impossible.  She sought out Dell'Arte International because she wants to take her training to a professional level. 

At Dell'Arte, not only will she develop a deep artistic sensibility and cultivate her perspective on the work of the actor, but she will make lifelong bonds with artists from around the world.  Already Dell'Arte has received applications for next year's class from all over the US and Puerto Rico, Canada, Denmark, Iraq, Zimbabwe, Spain, Brazil, Georgia, and Peru.  We hope to include Vida in this pan-global ensemble of vibrant artists.

Though the scholarship covers all of her tuition and fees, Vida will still need to provide for her living expenses.  Her family is supportive, and although Iran's financial reality is difficult, they have pledged to cover her airfare and $2000.  We estimate a total cost of $8000 for housing and food for 9.5 months, plus a $2000 emergency fund and $800 for medical insurance.  This is a total of $10,800.  Factoring in her family's contribution, we are looking for $8,800 to make her attendance a reality.

Last year, we had the honor of hosting Lloyd Nyikadzino of Zimbabwe as a student.  Similarly to Vida, Lloyd was granted a scholarship here and Dell'Arte was able to organize his funds to live here.  Since returning home, Lloyd has had an enormous impact on his local theatre environment, and has partnered with the US Embassy there and Southern Africa's International Theatre Institute to promote his training and our partnership, and to identify the next recipient of the Fellowship which brought him to California.  You can read about his work at http://harare.usembassy.gov/physical_training.html and http://www.tcgcircle.org/2012/11/interview-with-lloyd-nyikadzino/. 

Dell'Arte International and Vida Tayebati are thankful for any assistance or information about identifying possible funding sources that can be given.

Please feel free to contact us and her:

Matt Chapman: matt@dellarte.com 347.693.7630

Vida Tayebati: vida.tayebati@gmail.com

Bills & Resolutions

Immigration

S. 169:  I-Squared Act of 2013/Immigration Innovation Act of 2013

On January 29, 2013, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) introduced S.169, also known as the I-Squared Act of 2013 or the Immigration Innovation Act of 2013. The legislation has gained a total of 26 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators Richard Burr (R-NC), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

S.169 would permit an increase or decrease of H-1B visa quotas based on the economy (the quota is between 65,000 and 115,000 visas), and dependent H-1B spouses could apply for work authorization. The bill would allow nonimmigrant workers with E, H, L, O, and P visas to renew the visas as long as the workers remained eligible for them, and give students a means to pursue permanent residence in the U.S. Previously approved but unused immigrant visas from previous years could be used in the current year.  Visa quotas for employment-based immigrant visas would be lifted for dependents of employment-based immigrant visa holders, certain researchers and professors, persons of ability and talent, and U.S. STEM advanced degree holders. Visa quotas based on per-country limits for employment-based visa petitions would be lifted.  Additionally, funds raised from H-1 visas and employment-based immigrant visas would be used to support science, engineering, technology, and math education, and to retrain workers in the U.S.

S.301:  Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013

On February 13, 2013, Senator David Vitter (R-LA) introduced S.301, also known as the Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 3 co-sponsors--Senators Vitter, John Boozman (R-AR), and Mike Lee (R-UT)--and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

S.301 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to consider a person born in the United States "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States for citizenship at birth purposes if the person is born in the United States of parents, one of whom is: (1) a U.S. citizen or national, (2) a lawful permanent resident alien whose residence is in the United States, or (3) an alien performing active service in the U.S. armed forces.  H.140 is the House version of S.301.

S. 303: STEM Jobs Act of 2013

On February 13, 2013, Senator David Vitter (R-LA) introduced S.303, also known as the STEM Jobs Act of 2013.  The legislation has one sponsor (Senator Vitter), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

The STEM Jobs Act  would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to make up to 55,000 visas available in fiscal year 2014 and subsequent fiscal years to qualified immigrants who: (1) have a doctorate degree in a field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM degree) from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education; and (2) have taken all doctoral courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The act makes any such unused visas available to aliens who: (1) hold a master's degree in a STEM field from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education that was either part of a master's program that required at least two years of enrollment or part of a five-year combined baccalaureate-master's degree program in such field; (2) have taken all master's degree courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States; and (3) hold a baccalaureate degree in a STEM field or in a field included in the Department of Education's Classification of Instructional Programs taxonomy within the summary group of biological and biomedical sciences. 

The STEM Jobs Act would also eliminate the diversity immigrant program.

A similar bill, H.R. 459, has been introduced in the House.

S.J. RES. 4: A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to United States citizenship

On January 23, 2013, Senator David Vitter (R-LA) introduced S.J. RES. 4. The legislation currently has 1 sponsor (Senator Vitter) and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

The resolution proposes that the Constitution be amended so that those born in the U.S. are no longer automatically U.S. citizens.  Under the proposal, such persons would only be citizens if one of their parents was a citizen, an alien “lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States who resides in the United States,” or an alien actively serving in the Armed Forces, or if they themselves (as opposed to either of their parents) became naturalized citizens.

H.R. 140: Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013

On January 3, 2013, Representative Stephen King (R-IA/4^th) introduced H.R.140, also known as the Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 25 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Jeff Duncan (R-SC/3^rd), Paul C. Broun (R-GA/10^th), Sam Graves (R-MO/6^th), and Tom Graves (R-GA/14^th) and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.140 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to consider a person born in the United States "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States for citizenship at birth purposes if the person is born in the United States of parents, one of whom is: (1) a U.S. citizen or national, (2) a lawful permanent resident alien whose residence is in the United States, or (3) an alien performing active service in the U.S. armed forces. S. 301 is the Senate version of H.R.140.

H.R. 458: Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2013

On February 4, 2013, Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA/49^th) introduced H.R.458, also known as the Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained at total of 1 sponsor (Representative Issa), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.458 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for nonimmigrant status for an alien who is the parent or legal guardian of a United States citizen child if the child was born abroad and is the child of a deceased member of the armed forces of the United States.

H.R.459: STEM Visa Act of 2013

On February 4, 2013 Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA/49^th) introduced H.R. 458, also known as the STEM Visa Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 1 sponsor (Representative Issa), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

The STEM Visa Act  would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to make up to 55,000 visas available in fiscal year 2015 and subsequent fiscal years to qualified immigrants who: (1) have a doctorate degree in a field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM degree) from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education; and (2) have taken all doctoral courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The act makes any such unused visas available to aliens who: (1) hold a master's degree in a STEM field from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education that was either part of a master's program that required at least two years of enrollment or part of a five-year combined baccalaureate-master's degree program in such field; and (2) have taken all master's degree courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The STEM Visa Act would also eliminate the diversity immigrant program.

A similar bill, S.303, has been introduced in the Senate.

H.R.717: Reuniting Families Act

On February 14, 2013, Representative Michael Honda (D-CA/17^th) introduced H.R.717, also known as the Reuniting Families Act.  The legislation has a total of 67 cosponsors, the most recent of whom is Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA/2^nd), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.717 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to help ensure that visas are allocated efficiently, and would reduce the wait times that often keep legal immigrants, and their loved ones overseas, separated for years. The bill would also eliminate discrimination in immigration law against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans and their foreign-born partners.

Foreign Policy

S.559: Justice for Former American Hostages in Iran Act of 2013

On March 13, 2013, Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA) introduced S.559, also known as the Justice for Former American Hostages in Iran Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 2 cosponsors, the most recent of whom is Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S.559 would direct the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a fund that would be used to pay claims of persons who were held hostage for 444 days in Iran (Tehran) when the U.S. embassy was seized there.  Those held hostage (or their family members) could receive $10,000.

S.653: Near East and South Central Asia Religious Freedom Act of 2013

On March 22, 2013, Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) introduced S.653, also known as the Near East and South Central Asia Religious Freedom Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 3 co-sponsors—Senators Blunt, Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Carl Levin (D-MI)--and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S. 653 provides for the establishment of a Special Envoy to promote religious freedom for religious minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia. The duties of the envoy would include monitoring and combating acts of incitement and intolerance directed against religious minorities, working to ensure that the economic and security needs of such minorities are met, and working with foreign governments in the Near East and South Central Asia to address laws that are religiously discriminatory. The Special Envoy would be subject to the direction of the President and the Secretary of State.  

A similar bill, H.R.301, has been introduced in the House.

S.RES.65: Resolution expressing concern about the Iranian nuclear program 

On February 28, 2013, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) introduced S.RES.65, also known as the Graham-Menendez resolution.  Menendez is the name of a cosponsor of the legislation, Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ).  The legislation has gained a total of 89 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators Lamar Alexander (R-TN), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Jack Reed (D-RI), and has been placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 43.

S.RES.65 states that U.S. policy is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, supports the implementation and enforcement of U.S. and international sanctions against Iran to achieve that goal, states that the United States is committed to the existence, survival, and security of Israel, and affirms U.S. support for Israel’s right to self-defense.

S.RES.75: Condemning the Government of Iran for its state-sponsored persecution of its Baha’i minority and its continued violation of the International Covenants on Human Rights

On March 12, 2013, Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) introduced S.RES.75.  The legislation has gained a total of 13 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Dean Heller (R-NV), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S.RES.75 calls on Iran to release all prisoners being held solely on account of their religion.  It calls on the U.S. president and secretary of state, in cooperation with responsible nations, to condemn Iran’s continued human rights violations and demand that prisoners held for their religious beliefs be released.  S.RES.75 also urges the president and secretary to impose sanctions on Iranian government officials and other individuals directly responsible to serious human rights abuses, including abuses against Iran’s Baha’i community. 

S.RES.75 has also been introduced in the House of Represenatives as H.RES.109 by Representative Michael G. Grimm (R-NY/11^th), where it has a total of 3 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom is Representative Peter J. Roskam (R-IL/6^th), and has been referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

H.R. 301: Provides for the establishment of the Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia

On January 15, 2013, Representative Frank R. Wolf (R-10th/VA) introduced H.R.301. The legislation has gained a total of 43 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom include Reps. John Larson (D-CT/1^st), Mark Meadows (R-NC/11^th), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA/19^th), and Tim Griffin (R-AR/2^nd), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa.

H.R. 301 provides for the establishment of a Special Envoy to promote religious freedom for religious minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia. The duties of the envoy would include monitoring and combating acts of incitement and intolerance directed against religious minorities, working to ensure that the economic and security needs of such minorities are met, and working with foreign governments in the Near East and South Central Asia to address laws that are religiously discriminatory. The Special Envoy would be subject to the direction of the President and the Secretary of State.  

A similar bill, S.653, has been introduced in the Senate.

H.R. 783:  Prevent Iran from Acquiring Nuclear Weapons and Stop War Diplomacy Act

On February 15, 2013, Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA/13^th) introduced H.R. 783, also known as the Prevent Iran from Acquiring Nuclear Weapons and Stop War Diplomacy Act.  The legislation has gained a total of 18 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX/30^th) and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC/At Large), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa.

H.R.783 directs the President to appoint a high-level U.S. representative or special envoy for Iran who shall: (1) seek to ease tensions and normalize relations between the United States and Iran through bilateral and multilateral negotiations, (2) lead U.S. diplomatic efforts with regard to Iran, and (3) act as liaison with U.S. and international intelligence agencies. The bill also directs the Secretary of State to: (1) rescind the no contact policy with Iran, and (2) establish an office in the Department of State to support the work of the representative or special envoy.

H.R. 850:  Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013

On February 27, 2013, Congressman Ed Royce (R-CA/39^th) introduced H.R. 850, also known as the Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013.  The legislation has a total of 300 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Ken Calvert (R-CA/42^nd), K. Michael Conaway (R-TX/11^th), Marcia Fudge (D-OH/11^th), and Martin Stutzman (R-IN/3^rd), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.850 would limit business transactions with Iran, increase the list of Iranian companies and individuals affected by existing sanctions, and potentially block Iran from having access to its foreign bank assets which are held in euros.  The bill would punish foreign individuals and companies that violate U.S. sanctions on Iran by threatening them with restrictions on their ability to do business with the United States.  H.R.850 would also designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, and impose sanctions on certain individuals in Iran responsible for or complicit in human rights abuses, engaging in censorship, or engaging in the diversion of goods intended for the Iranian people.

H.RES.183: Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Broadcasting Board of Governors should broadcast and direct Azeri language content into Iran and Balochi language content into Iran and Pakistan

On April 25, 2013, Representative Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA/48^th) introduced H.RES.183.  The legislation currently has one sponsor (Representative Rohrabacher), and has been referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

H.R. 183 stated that the Azeri and Baloch peoples have a right to self-determination, and calls for the Broadcasting Board of Governors to broadcast Azeri language material into Iran and Balochi language material into Iran and Pakistan.

 Special Category:

H.CONG.RES.27: Supporting the formation of a bipartisan Presidential Commission to study the establishment of a National Museum of the American People

On March 19, 2013, Representative James P. Moran (D-VA/8^th) introduced H.CONG.RES.27.  The legislation has gained a total of 18 cosponsors, the most recent of whom is Representative Nita M. Lowey (D-NY/17^th), and has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

H.CONG.RES.27 would create a presidential commission to study the establishment of a National Museum of the American People.  The museum would tell the story of all the peoples who came to the United States and contributed to its success and prosperity.  The museum would also serve as a resource to assist state, local, and ethnic museums in presenting exhibits that celebrate the heritage of the people of the United States.

H.RES.130: Recognizes the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz and acknowledging the Cyrus Cylinder as a symbol of respect for human rights and religious tolerance

On March 20, 2013, Representative Henry Waxman (R-CA/33^rd) introduced H.RES.130.  The legislation has a total of 16 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-CA/19^th), Steve Stockman (R-TX/36^th), and John K. Delaney (D-MD/6^th), and has been referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

H.RES.130 details the impact of the Cyrus Cylinder in history, noting that it has come to symbolize one of mankind’s first documents of human rights, and acknowledges the historical significance of the cylinder’s first tour of the United States in 2013.

April 25, 2013, Washington, D.C.

The contest, sponsored in part by Mission: Restore, was created to celebrate the diversity and richness of Iranian culture.  From essays to paintings, videos to sculptures, Iranian Americans of all ages conveyed their own message of what they believe their Iranian heritage represents.

Click here to view all five winning entries of the “I am Cyrus” contest.

PAAIA thanks all of those who submitted an entry and congratulates all five winners of this contest.  PAAIA also thanks Mission: Restore for its sponsorship of this contest. Mission: Restore is a non-profit organization that provides life-changing plastic and reconstructive surgery both globally and locally to children and adults in need.

Subject: “USA versus Iran Wrestling”
Name:
Number of Tickets: 1 or 2
City, State:

There will be a limit of two (2) tickets per inquiry, and no re-sales are permitted. These tickets are also only for the USA versus Iran match and not the USA versus Russia match taking place later in the day. Please note that tickets are required to attend this event and there will not be any standing room or walk-up admission. 

Individuals not able to secure tickets may watch the event live on channel 4.  PAAIA will follow up with details of a central location for non-ticket recipients to meet at to watch the matches.

PAAIA would like to thank the generous Iranian American community members who helped raise funding for this event by covering the expenses of the Iranian wrestling team and donating tickets for the community to attend the event.  All funds raised by the Iranian American community beyond these expenses will be donated by Beat-the-Streets to support the preservation of Olympic wrestling.

Click here for information about Beat-the-Streets and this event.

Click here to watch the interview of Mike Novogratz, Chairman of Beat-the-Streets.

April 18, 2013, Washington, D.C. - The Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA) today released the findings of its fifth national public opinion survey of Iranian Americans.  The 2013 survey was conducted by George Mason University in February and follows similar annual surveys commissioned by PAAIA.  The surveys are an integral component of better understanding the Iranian American community and having its voice heard through the availability of on-going accurate scientific data.  
 
PAAIA 2013 Survey Highlights 
 
According to the survey, Iranian Americans maintain close ties to family and friends in Iran. Thirty-two percent (32%) report that they have at least one parent living in the country. Sixty-six percent (66%) of Iranian Americans surveyed stated that they communicate with their family and friends in Iran at least several times a month.    
 
Iranian Americans want to see change in Iran. The survey indicates that from among a list of seven issues relating to U.S.-Iran relations, the greatest number of Iranian Americans, fifty-six percent (56%), cited the promotion of human rights and democracy as the most important, followed by thirty-one percent (31%) who chose promotion of regime change.
 
Iranian Americans differ in their views as to what would be the best course of action for the U.S. to take towards Iran. Forty-two percent (42%) believe either the promotion of regime change or the promotion of human rights and democracy would be in America’s best interest, while thirty-five percent (35%) cite diplomatic negotiations or establishing diplomatic relations. Only three percent (3%) said that military action against Iran would be the best course of action. 
 
When asked about potential U.S. strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities, a total of sixty-four percent (64%) of Iranian Americans said they were opposed to such strikes, while eleven percent (11%) said they would support them and seventeen percent (17%) might support them in some circumstances.  Nine percent (9%) were not sure. 
 
A solid majority of Iranian Americans—fifty-nine percent (59%)—stated they approved of President Obama’s handling of Iran’s nuclear program, although they are divided about whether U.S. policy in this area will be successful. A large majority of sixty-eight percent (68%) would support the removal of sanctions on Iran if the Iranian regime reached an agreement with the U.S. and the international community concerning its nuclear program.
 
Most Iranian Americans do not support opposition groups or figures in Iran.  In the 2013 survey, only fifteen percent (15%) said they did so.  This should not be interpreted to mean that the current Iranian regime has significant support among the Iranian American population.  In fact, in the 2011 PAAIA survey, sixty-seven percent (67%) of respondents stated that they wanted to see Iran become a democracy.  Only two percent (2%) said that Iran should continue to be an Islamic republic. 
 
Click here for the complete report. 
 

Dear President Obama, 

Yesterday, a deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Khash, Iran. Early reports have indicated that it was the strongest earthquake to hit the region in decades.  We write you to urge that the White House, in coordination with the Department of Treasury and Department of State, take action to ensure that sanctions do not in any way impede relief efforts, and to enable Americans to provide assistance as needed to the Iranian people.

This latest earthquake follows a 6.3 magnitude earthquake that struck Bushehr on April 9, that killed at least 37 people, injured hundreds more, and destroyed over 700 homes.  Our coalition wrote to you last week following that earthquake to urge that efforts be undertaken to ensure that sanctions do not impede relief efforts. Today, we write you in the aftermath of another deadly earthquake to reiterate our request.

In 2012, following deadly earthquakes in northwest Iran, our organizations urged you to take similar action.  A few days later, the administration issued a temporary general license to allow charitable organizations to provide direct humanitarian relief and reconstruction assistance to the Iranian people.  Similarly, when an earthquake struck Bam, Iran, in 2003, the Bush Administration issued a general license to help enable relief organizations to work in Iran and support recovery efforts.

We have been greatly appreciative of these past efforts and hope that, in light of these latest disasters, you will continue to take action as necessary to ensure that sanctions do not get in the way of humanitarian relief.

Sincerely,

Child Foundation, Children of Persia, Havaar, The HAND Foundation, Iranian Alliances Across Borders, Iranian American Bar Association, IMAN Foundation, Keep Children in School, Moms Against Poverty, National Iranian American Council, Pars Equality Center, Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans, United For Iran, and the West Asia Council. 

The winners of the “I am Cyrus” contest, selected from numerous entries that were submitted, are as follows:

Group 1: Non-Student                                           Josephine Mairzadeh

Group 2: University/College Student                       Yasaman Louhghalam

Group 3: High School Student                                Paniz Shahbazian

Group 4: Middle School Student                             Benjamin Malek

Group 5: Elementary School Student                      Yasha Sarhangpour

One of the five selected winners will also be selected as the overall grand prize winner to be used by PAAIA to further promote our culture and heritage. The grand prize winner will be featured on the PAAIA website, and will also receive an additional prize of $250.

Voting for the grand prize winner will take place on PAAIA’s Facebook page and will be open until April 23, 2013.  Click here to view the winning entries and to vote for the grand prize winner.

PAAIA thanks all of those who submitted an entry and congratulates the winners of this contest.  PAAIA also thanks Mission: Restore for its sponsorship of this contest. Mission: Restore is a non-profit organization that provides life-changing plastic and reconstructive surgery both globally and locally to children and adults in need.

Group 1: Josephine Mairzadeh	Gropu 2: Yasaman Loughalam
Group 3: Paniz Shahbazian	Group 4: Benjamin Malek
Group 5: Yasha Sarhangpour

Our deepest sympathies go out to the victims of this crime, their families, runners in the Boston Marathon, and the people of Boston.

We stand with all Bostonians during this very difficult time.

The honorees include:

• Mr. Jamshid Ehsani, Scientist, global financial expert and philanthropist

• Dr. Jamshid Ghajar, Neurosurgeon and founder of the Brain Trauma Foundation

• Dr. Hossein Gharib, international authority on Thyroid disorders

• Mr. Yousef Javadi, entrepreneur, innovator, and PAAIA Board Member

• Mr. Vahid Kooros, founder of Oxus Energy LLC, businessman and philanthropist

• Mr. Farshad Mahjoor, Architect, businessman, industrialist, and philanthropist

• Mr. David Merage, Principal, Consolidated Investment Group and philanthropist

• Dr. Pardis Sabeti, Associate Professor, Center for Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Senior Associate Member of the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT

• Homa Sarshar, author, journalist, media personality

The honorees join 52 other Iranian Americans who have been awarded Medal of Honor since NECO’s finding in 1986. Approximately 100 individuals are awarded this prestigious medal on an annual basis at a ceremony on Ellis Island.

Established in 1986 by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO), the Ellis Island Medals of Honor annually pays tribute to the ancestry groups that comprise America’s unique cultural mosaic. The Ellis Island Medal of Honor ranks among the nation’s most prestigious awards. The Medals are presented on Ellis Island, in a dramatic ceremony, to American citizens of diverse origins for their outstanding contributions to their communities, their nation, and the world.

The Ellis Island Medals of Honor are sanctioned by the U.S. Congress and recipients’ names are listed in the Congressional Record. Six Presidents of the United States, Nobel Prize winners, athletes, leaders of industry, artists, and others are among the remarkable group of individuals to have previously received the award.

PAAIA congratulates this year’s medal recipients and thanks them for their contributions to the richness and diversity of American life.

Click here to view the full list of the 2013 Ellis Island Medal recipients.  

Click here to view the full list of Iranian American honorees from inception to 2010.

The coalition asked that the Obama administration again take appropriate action to issue a general license, and take any additional measures necessary to ensure that relief efforts are not impeded by U.S. sanctions.

 On Tuesday, April 9, 2013, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck the southwestern area of Iran. The initial earthquake struck approximately 90 km (60 miles) southeast of the city of Bushehr. The earthquake has left about 37 people dead, more than 950 people injured, and nearly 800 houses destroyed or damaged.

The above referenced coalition includes PAAIA, the Child Foundation, Children of Persia, Havaar-Iranian Initiative Against War, Sanctions, and State Repression, the HAND Foundation, the Iranian Alliances Across Borders (IAAB), the Iranian American Bar Association (IABA), the IMAN Foundation, the Keep Children in School Foundation, Moms Against Poverty, the National Iranian American Council (NIAC), Pars Equality Center, United for Iran, and the West Asia Council.

The full text of the letter is below:

April 11, 2013

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

Dear President Obama,

On Tuesday, April 9, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Bushehr, Iran, reportedly killing at least 37 people, injuring at least 850 more, and destroying over 700 homes. In the aftermath of this disaster, we write to urge that the White House, in coordination with the Department of Treasury and Department of State, take appropriate action to enable humanitarian and reconstruction assistance and ensure that U.S. sanctions on Iran do not in any way impede relief efforts.

We greatly appreciated your Administration's efforts last year when two earthquakes struck northwest Iran. The White House, Treasury Department, and State Department took action to issue a General License temporarily authorizing charitable organizations to provide direct humanitarian and reconstruction assistance to the Iranian people despite sanctions. Similarly, when an earthquake struck Bam, Iran, in 2003, the Bush Administration issued a General License to help enable relief organizations to work in Iran and support recovery efforts. We strongly supported these efforts and hope that you will once again take appropriate action to issue a General License and take any additional measures necessary to ensure relief efforts are not impeded by U.S. sanctions.

Enabling the American people to help the Iranian people will support relief efforts and demonstrate that  disputes between governments should never interfere with humanitarian needs and goodwill among people. We strongly encourage that you take appropriate action and our organizations stand ready to help with any such effort. 

Sincerely,

Child Foundation
Children of Persia
Havaar
The HAND Foundation
Iranian Alliances Across Borders
Iranian American Bar Association
IMAN Foundation
Keep Children in School Foundation
Moms Against Poverty
National Iranian American Council
Pars Equality Center
Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans
United For Iran
West Asia Council

cc: Secretary of Treasury Jack Lew
     Secretary of State John Kerry

Congress is considering a number of legislative initiatives that may be of interest to the Iranian American community.  The PAAIA Public Policy Center is pleased to provide a round-up on the status of the legislation. In general, PAAIA focuses on bills and congressional actions concerning three areas: civil liberties, foreign policy towards Iran, and immigration.  PAAIA recognizes that it is important that Iranian Americans be informed about legislative initiatives in these areas and the positions that their members of Congress take concerning them.

Bills & Resolutions

Immigration

S. 169:  I-Squared Act of 2013/Immigration Innovation Act of 2013

On January 29, 2013, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) introduced S.169, also known as the I-Squared Act of 2013 or the Immigration Innovation Act of 2013. The legislation has gained a total of 26 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators Richard Burr (R-NC), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

S.169 would permit an increase or decrease of H-1B visa quotas based on the economy (the quota is between 65,000 and 115,000 visas), and dependent H-1B spouses could apply for work authorization. The bill would allow nonimmigrant workers with E, H, L, O, and P visas to renew the visas as long as the workers remained eligible for them, and give students a means to pursue permanent residence in the U.S. Previously approved but unused immigrant visas from previous years could be used in the current year.  Visa quotas for employment-based immigrant visas would be lifted for dependents of employment-based immigrant visa holders, certain researchers and professors, persons of ability and talent, and U.S. STEM advanced degree holders. Visa quotas based on per-country limits for employment-based visa petitions would be lifted.  Additionally, funds raised from H-1 visas and employment-based immigrant visas would be used to support science, engineering, technology, and math education, and to retrain workers in the U.S.

S.J. RES. 4: A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to United States citizenship.

On January 23, 2013, Senator David Vitter (R-LA) introduced S.J. RES. 4. The legislation currently has 1 co-sponsor (Senator Vitter) and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

The resolution proposes that the Constitution be amended so that those born in the U.S. are no longer automatically U.S. citizens.  Under the proposal, such persons would only be citizens if one of their parents was a citizen, an alien “lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States who resides in the United States,” or an alien actively serving in the Armed Forces, or if they themselves (as opposed to either of their parents) became naturalized citizens.

H.R. 140: Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013

On January 3, 2013, Representative Stephen King (R-IA/4^th) introduced H.R.140, also known as the Birthright Citizenship Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 25 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Jeff Duncan (R-SC/3^rd), Paul C. Broun (R-GA/10^th), Sam Graves (R-MO/6^th), and Tom Graves (R-GA/14^th) and has been referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.140 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to consider a person born in the United States "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States for citizenship at birth purposes if the person is born in the United States of parents, one of whom is: (1) a U.S. citizen or national, (2) a lawful permanent resident alien whose residence is in the United States, or (3) an alien performing active service in the U.S. armed forces.  H.R. 140 was introduced in the Senate as S.301 on February 13, 2013 by Senator David Vitter (R-LA). S.301 has gained a total of 3 co-sponsors--Senators Vitter, John Boozman (R-AR), and Mike Lee (R-UT), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

H.R. 458: Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2013

On February 4, 2013, Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA/49^th) introduced H.R.458, also known as the Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained at total of 1 co-sponsor (Representative Issa), and has been referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.458 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for nonimmigrant status for an alien who is the parent or legal guardian of a United States citizen child if the child was born abroad and is the child of a deceased member of the armed forces of the United States.

H.R.459: STEM Visa Act of 2013

On February 4, 2013 Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA/49^th) introduced H.R. 458, also known as the STEM Visa Act of 2013.  The legislation has gained a total of 1 co-sponsor (Representative Issa), and has been referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security. H.R. 459 was introduced in the Senate as S.303 on February 13, 2013 by Senator David Vitter (R-LA). S.303 has one co-sponsor (Senator Vitter), and has been referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.

The STEM Act  would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to make up to 55,000 visas available in fiscal year 2015 and subsequent fiscal years to qualified immigrants who: (1) have a doctorate degree in a field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM degree) from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education; and (2) have taken all doctoral courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The act makes any such unused visas available to aliens who: (1) hold a master's degree in a STEM field from a U.S. doctoral institution of higher education that was either part of a master's program that required at least two years of enrollment or part of a five-year combined baccalaureate-master's degree program in such field; and (2) have taken all master's degree courses in a STEM field, including all courses taken by correspondence or by distance education, while physically present in the United States.

The STEM Act would also eliminate the diversity immigrant program.

H.R.717 (Reuniting Families Act): To ensure the efficiency of visa allocations and eliminate discrimination in immigration law.

On February 14, 2013, Representative Michael Honda (D-CA/17^th) introduced H.R.717, also known as the Reuniting Families Act.  The legislation has a total of 66 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Matt Cartwright (D-PA/17^th) Hank Johnson (D-GA/4^th), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX/18^th), and Jim McDermott (D-WA/7^th), and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security.

H.R.717 would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to help ensure that visas are allocated efficiently, and would reduce the wait times that often keep legal immigrants, and their loved ones overseas, separated for years. The bill would also eliminate discrimination in immigration law against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans and their foreign-born partners.

Foreign Policy

S.559: A bill to establish a fund to make payments to the Americans held hostage in Iran.

On March 13, 2013, Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA) introduced S.559.  The legislation has gained a total of 2 cosponsors, the most recent of whom is Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S.559 would direct the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a fund that would be used to pay claims of persons who were held hostage for 444 days in Iran (Tehran) when the U.S. embassy was seized there.  Those held hostage (or their family members) could receive $10,000.

S.RES.65: Resolution expressing concern about the Iranian nuclear program.  

On February 28, 2013, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) introduced S.RES.65, also known as the Graham-Menendez resolution.  Menendez is the name of a cosponsor of the legislation, Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ).  The legislation has gained a total of 79 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators William Cowan (D-MA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Michael Enzi (R-WY), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S.RES.65 states that U.S. policy is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, supports the implementation and enforcement of U.S. and international sanctions against Iran to achieve that goal, states that the United States is committed to the existence, survival, and security of Israel, and affirms U.S. support for Israel’s right to self-defense.

S.RES.75: Condemning the Government of Iran for its state-sponsored persecution of its Baha’i minority and its continued violation of the International Covenants on Human Rights.

On March 12, 2013, Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) introduced S.RES.75.  The legislation has gained a total of 11 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO), Benjamin Cardin (D-MD), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), and Ron Wyden (D-OR), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

S.RES.75 calls on Iran to release all prisoners being held solely on account of their religion.  It calls on the U.S. president and secretary of state, in cooperation with responsible nations, to condemn Iran’s continued human rights violations and demand that prisoners held for their religious beliefs be released.  S.RES.75 also urges the president and secretary to impose sanctions on Iranian government officials and other individuals directly responsible to serious human rights abuses, including abuses against Iran’s Baha’i community. 

S.RES.75 has also been introduced in the House of Represenatives as H.RES.109 by Representative Michael G. Grimm (R-NY/11^th), where it has a total of 2 co-sponsors and has been referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

H.R. 301: To provide for the establishment of a Special Envoy to promote religious freedom of religious minorities.

On January 15, 2013, Representative Frank R. Wolf (R-10th/VA) introduced H.R.301. The legislation has gained a total of 39 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom include Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX/30^th), Bill Johnson (R-OH/6^th) and Judy Chu (D-CA/27^th), and has been referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

H.R. 301 provides for the establishment of a Special Envoy to promote religious freedom for religious minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia. The duties of the envoy would include monitoring and combating acts of incitement and intolerance directed against religious minorities, working to ensure that the economic and security needs of such minorities are met, and working with foreign governments in the Near East and South Central Asia to address laws that are religiously discriminatory. The Special Envoy would be subject to the direction of the President and the Secretary of State. .  H.R. 301 was introduced in the Senate as S.653 on March 22, 2013 by Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO). S.653 has gained a total of 3 co-sponsors—Senators Blunt, Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Carl Levin (D-MI), and has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

H.R. 783:  Prevent Iran from Acquiring Nuclear Weapons and Stop War Diplomacy Act

On February 15, 2013, Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA/13^th) introduced H.R. 783.  The legislation has gained a total of 17 co-sponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX/30^th), Donna Edwards (D-MD/4^th), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ/3^rd), and Jim McDermott (D-WA/7^th), and has been referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

H.R.783 directs the President to appoint a high-level U.S. representative or special envoy for Iran who shall: (1) seek to ease tensions and normalize relations between the United States and Iran through bilateral and multilateral negotiations, (2) lead U.S. diplomatic efforts with regard to Iran, and (3) act as liaison with U.S. and international intelligence agencies. The bill also directs the Secretary of State to: (1) rescind the no contact policy with Iran, and (2) establish an office in the Department of State to support the work of the representative or special envoy.

H.R. 850:  Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013

On February 27, 2013, Congressman Ed Royce (R-CA/39^th) introduced H.R. 850, also known as the Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013.  The legislation has a total of 258 cosponsors, and has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Trade.

H.R.850 would limit business transactions with Iran, increase the list of Iranian companies and individuals affected by existing sanctions, and potentially block Iran from having access to its foreign bank assets which are held in euros.  The bill would punish foreign individuals and companies that violate U.S. sanctions on Iran by threatening them with restrictions on their ability to do business with the United States.  H.R.850 would also designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, and impose sanctions on certain individuals in Iran responsible for or complicit in human rights abuses, engaging in censorship, or engaging in the diversion of goods intended for the Iranian people.

Special Category:

H.CONG.RES.27: Supporting the formation of a bipartisan Presidential Commission to study the establishment of a National Museum of the American People

On March 19, 2013, Representative James P. Moran (D-VA/8^th) introduced H.CONG.RES.27.  The legislation has gained a total of 17 cosponsors, the most recent of whom are Representatives Keith Ellison (D-MN/5^th), Ron Kind, (D-WI/3^rd), Mike McIntyre (D-NC/7^th), and Don Young (R-AK/At Large), and has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

H.CONG.RES.27 would create a presidential commission to study the establishment of a National Museum of the American People.  The museum would tell the story of all the peoples who came to the United States and contributed to its success and prosperity.  The museum would also serve as a resource to assist state, local, and ethnic museums in presenting exhibits that celebrate the heritage of the people of the United States.

H.RES.130: Recognizes the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz and acknowledging the Cyrus Cylinder as a symbol of respect for human rights and religious tolerance

On March 20, 2013, Representative Henry Waxman (R-CA/33^rd) introduced H.RES.130.  The legislation has a total of 14 cosponsors, the most recent of whom is Representative John K. Delaney (D-MD/6^th) and has been referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

H.RES.130 details the impact of the Cyrus Cylinder in history, noting that it has come to symbolize one of mankind’s first documents of human rights, and acknowledges the historical significance of the cylinder’s first tour of the United States in 2013.

Members of PAAIA & PAAIA NexGen greeted guests at a PAAIA table, networking with other members of the Iranian American community in New York interested in the organization. The event also featured a series of speakers, including board members of the IABA and Iman Barkhordari, a PAAIA NY chapter leader. Mr. Barkhordari described PAAIA’s mission and emphasized the importance of community participation. He also announced exciting upcoming PAAIA activities, such as the co-sponsorship of the upcoming arrival of the Cyrus Cylinder in New York, as well as the PAAIA-sponsored summer 2013 premier of the Noor Iranian Film Festival, also in New York. The keynote speaker for the evening was the Honorable Judge Randall T. Eng, who gave an eloquent and inspirational speech to the guests.

The highly successful and fun-filled evening formed new friendships and forged a strong sense of community among the guests.

Speakers at the event included members of board of the Iranian American Bar Association, the PAAIA NY Chapter Mr. Iman Barkhordari, and the Honorable Judge Randall T. Eng.	From left to right: PAAIA NexGen NY Vice Chair of Leadership & Professional Development Pejman Azarmina, PAAIA NexGen NY member Monna Sabouri, PAAIA NexGen National Organizing Committee member Shaheen Ensanyat, PAAIA NY Chapter Leader Iman Barkhordari