President Obama released a special video message for all those celebrating Nowruz. Translated "New Day," Nowruz marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of the New Year for millions in Iran and other Persian communities around the world. (see an outline of the Persian disapora here)
This year, the President wanted to send a special message to the people and government of Iran on Nowruz, acknowledging the strain in our relations over the last few decades. "But at this holiday we are reminded of the common humanity that binds us together," he says.
After committing his administration to a future of honest and respectful diplomacy, he continues on to address Iran's leaders directly: "You, too, have a choice. The United States wants the Islamic Republic of Iran to take its rightful place in the community of nations. You have that right -- but it comes with real responsibilities, and that place cannot be reached through terror or arms, but rather through peaceful actions that demonstrate the true greatness of the Iranian people and civilization. And the measure of that greatness is not the capacity to destroy, it is your demonstrated ability to build and create."
This year, the President wanted to send a special message to the people and government of Iran on Nowruz, acknowledging the strain in our relations over the last few decades. "But at this holiday we are reminded of the common humanity that binds us together," he says.
After committing his administration to a future of honest and respectful diplomacy, he continues on to address Iran's leaders directly: "You, too, have a choice. The United States wants the Islamic Republic of Iran to take its rightful place in the community of nations. You have that right -- but it comes with real responsibilities, and that place cannot be reached through terror or arms, but rather through peaceful actions that demonstrate the true greatness of the Iranian people and civilization. And the measure of that greatness is not the capacity to destroy, it is your demonstrated ability to build and create."
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Watch the President's address. Just turn-up the sound and push the play button.
In San Francisco, Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi will host a special clebration for Persian New Year at his office in San Francisco City Hall. The second annual Nowruz Deed-o Bazdeed celebration will take place on Friday, March 27th, from 5:30 to 8 PM. The event will be hosted in Supervisor Mirkarimi's office on the grand second floor of City Hall and everyone interested in Persian New year is invited! Enter through Room 282. Click here for directions and transit options to City Hall.
Learn more by calling Supervisor Mirkarimi's staff at or email
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2 comments:
I love President Obamas's speech! I am Iranien American and hope and pray that this two great country become great friends again.Thanks Mr President.
It is good to acknowledge our fellow citizens' holiday and cultural traditions. Happy Nowruz to all!
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