PAAIA Applauds Introduction of Nowruz Resolution
Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Zoe Lofgren (CA-18th), Stephanie Bice (OK-5th), Gerry Connolly (VA-11th), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1st) introduced a bipartisan resolution (H.Res.215) in honor of Nowruz, the Iranian New Year. PAAIA is the leading advocate for Nowruz resolutions in Congress, and this marks the seventh time that a similar piece of legislation has been introduced.
With a rich history of over 3,000 years, Nowruz celebrates the arrival of spring, annually occurring on the vernal equinox. This year, Nowruz will take place on Monday, March 20th and will be observed by more than 300 million people around the world. In the U.S., more than 1 million Iranian Americans of all faiths will be celebrating this joyous holiday and welcoming a prosperous new year.
In addition to recognizing the historical and cultural significance of Nowruz and the many contributions of Iranian Americans to U.S. society, the Nowruz resolution also recognizes the ongoing “Women, Life, Freedom” movement in Iran and “strongly supports the right of all Iranians to exercise freedom of assembly, freedom of expression, and freedom of speech.” It underscores the importance of human rights, religious tolerance, and freedom for all people, including the people of Iran.
Given the current situation facing protestors in Iran, it’s more important now than ever to demonstrate congressional support for the Iranian people. Take action today by sending a message to your Representative, urging them to sponsor the Nowruz resolution.
Other cosponsors thus far include Jim Himes (CT-4th), Ro Khanna (CA-17th), Brad Sherman (CA-32nd), Jamie Raskin (MD-8th), Jim Costa (CA- 21st), Betty McCollum (MN-4th), Katie Porter (CA-47th), David Trone (MD-6th), Luo Correa (CA-46th), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27th), Scott Peters (CA-50th), and Susie Lee (NV-3rd).
About PAAIA
The Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, nonsectarian organization that serves the interests of Iranian Americans and represents the community before U.S. policymakers and the American public at large.
