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My short interview in Farsi with BBC Persian amid the Washington DC protests against Trump's immigration ban.
"There are many present here protesting Trump's order despite the fact that it may not have a direct impact on their lives or family's lives. This demonstrates the awareness of America's civil society. [They know] that if the rights of a specific group is trampled and not protected it may result in future restriction of their own rights and freedoms."
Since Donald Trump's "Muslim Ban," I've received many messages of support from friends near and far. Your encouraging words mean the world to me. I will not for a second forget how lucky I am to have such an amazing group of people who have my back when the going gets tough. Your love energizes me, motivates me, and reminds me that I am not alone. I am forever grateful!
But, guess what? This is not about me. This is not about my family. This is not about Iranians or Muslims. This is about all of us who call this magnificent country home. Every single American who abides by the rule of law and order. Every single American who believes that law should govern the nation, as opposed to being governed by arbitrary decisions. Every single American who believes in the value of hard work and determination. Every single American who believes in the elusive American dream.
Trump’s seemingly impulsive and haphazard indefinite suspension of the resettlement of Syrian refugees and the "Muslim ban" challenges these values. It threatens our way of life. It makes a mockery of our tried and tested - albeit imperfect - immigration laws and procedures. It belittles the value of human life and dignity. It diminishes the value of logic, reason, and compassion. It makes a mockery of hundreds of thousands of immigrants who have been cleared to live in America under visas or permanent residencies.
In a few short hours after the ban, we witnessed the suffering of thousands of families who had legally earned their safe passage to the United States. Among them are grandparents waiting to see their loved ones. Children who miraculously survived the carnage in Syria. Medical or military professionals who have cared for us and saved American lives. Educators who have taught our children. Laborers who have produced goods and countless services. People who have served this country proudly, paid taxes, abided by laws and regulations, and been exemplary citizens. They believe in American values and contribute to the nation's prosperity. Trump's executive order is not just a "Muslim ban." It's a costly and ignorant decision that endangers our well-being as a nation and everything we hold dear.
So, I beg of you to do all you can to protect your way of life. I beg of you to protect your welfare. Stand up for your own right. March with passion. Organize local events. Sign petitions. Donate to civil rights organizations. Call your representatives. Call out bigotry. Call out hate. By standing up to injustice, you are protecting the collective good. You are securing a better life for all. You are ensuring a better tomorrow for your loved ones. This is our fight. This is our country. This is our future. E pluribus unum.