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Jed Boal ReportingThis is a very important week culturally for Iranian-Americans. At the same time, global concern grows over Iran's nuclear program. Iranian Americans in Utah want us all to have a better understanding of their cultural values.
Iranian-Americans in Utah fear the true nature of their proud culture has been tainted by the actions and attitudes of the current Iranian regime in Tehran. They are coming to the close of the Persian New Year's celebration and they hope the community gets a better sense of their heritage.
A billboard greets motorists as they exit I-15 on 600 South in Salt Lake with a message of peace from the Iranian-American Community of Utah.
American-Iranians like Nasrin Mohammadi and Ghazaleh Semnani are celebrating a central celebration in Persian culture. Tomorrow marks the close of the 13-day holiday of the Persian New Year.
Nasrin Mohammadi, Iranian-American Community of Utah: "It's transformation of life. It's the first day of spring. It arks a heritage that goes back over 3,500 years ago."
The elements in this cultural setting all represent the renewal of life. Iranian-Americans in Utah see this new year as a chance to change negative perceptions created by the Iranian government and its rift with the international community. These Utahns cannot do anything about that regime.
Ghazaleh Semnani, Iranian-American Community of Utah: "As long as the people know us, there is no negative image. We are just like everybody else."
An annual proclamation from the governor recognizes Iranian American day each spring. Leaders in the community credit younger Iranians for driving the new movement to share their diverse heritage.
Nasrin Mohammadi: "They're born and raised here. They would like to go out and spread that and promote that."
At a time when negative perceptions swirl around Iran, these Utahns want to share unity and peace.
Ghazaleh Semnani: "I am from Iran, my heritage is Iranian, and I'm very proud of that. What we do and what our kids will do in this community will mark that."
It's a positive and happy time of year for Iranians and they say nothing in their history has kept them from celebrating. They conclude that celebration tomorrow.
