Dear Politicians and World Leaders,

We are all connected and need each other to build a better world. I mention “world” because your impact goes beyond the US borders with often a profound impact on other nations. Listening to and digesting our ask is key to securing votes and inspiring voters. I want to communicate a common ask that can empower you with millions of voters. 

The Iranian-American community:

Iranian Americans are among the most highly educated people in the United States. From well-known Tech founders/entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley to business leaders, lawyers, medical doctors, academic professors, scientists, artists, and entertainers –  We have contributed to the US economy and its role in global leadership, significantly. 

Side Note: Our contribution is inversely related to how we are treated in the US. 

The Struggle: 

The Iranian diaspora in the US has always struggled with harsh discrimination. We were never treated as “Americans”. We have always lived in the shadows of the wrongdoings of the Islamic republic regime. We don’t share the same values and ideologies as the regime but we pay the price regardless of where we are in the world. 

The Ask: 

The community is now united more than ever. The death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini created an uprising that has united the Iranian diaspora in a capacity never seen before. This new revolution, led by women, is going to finally change the tide for all of us, benefiting the entire world. Here is what we need your support with: 

1. Stop recognizing the Islamic Republic of Iran as a legal and legitimate entity.
2. Work with European allies to expel Iranian diplomats.
3. Halt all JCPOA talks.
4. Freeze government officials’ assets outside of Iran. Use the blocked funds to help human rights organizations like Amnesty and Internet connectivity in Iran.

The Never Do:

Our hope is that we never hear empty expressions like “we stand with you”. We need action. The time has come. 

With Gratitude. 

Pouria