PAAIA Urges Congress to Pass Nowruz Legislation
Washington, DC –Today, Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) introduced a congressional resolution (H.Res.238) in honor of the Iranian New Year – Nowruz. PAAIA urged the introduction of the Nowruz resolution in this Congress and in previous Congresses to foster greater understanding about the culture and heritage of Iranian Americans.
The resolution recognizes the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz and wishes Iranian Americans, the people of Iran, and all those who celebrate the holiday a prosperous new year. In addition to commemorating the Nowruz holiday, the resolution acknowledges the “lasting contributions” of Iranian civilization to the world and the “noteworthy” impact Iranian Americans have had on the social and economic fabric of America. The resolution also underscores the importance of human rights and religious tolerance not just for the people of Iran, but for people everywhere, and recognizes congressional support for the Iranian people’s right to freedom of expression and speech.
“By embracing the spirit of Nowruz, the resolution sends a timely and powerful gesture of goodwill to the Iranian people,” said Leila Austin, Executive Director of PAAIA. “The majority of the Iranian population maintains a favorable disposition toward America and its values. Measures such as this cultivate constructive engagement with the Iranian people while serving U.S. national interests.”
This year’s Nowruz resolution
marks the fourth time that similar legislation has been introduced in support
of the Persian New Year. Co-sponsors include Reps. Gerald Connolly (D-VA), Debra Haaland (D-NM), Ro Khanna
(D-CA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and Jackie Speier (D-CA). During
the 111th, 114th, and 115th Congresses, PAAIA
worked with former Rep. Michael Honda (D-CA) and Rep. Lofgren to mark
congressional recognition of the holiday.
Take Action Today! Given our nation’s current hostile political climate, it’s more important now than ever to demonstrate congressional support for the Iranian people. Take action today by sending a message to your House Representative, urging them to support this resolution.
March, 14th 2019
