North Texans gathered to mark the beginning of the year 1394 in the Persian Calendar

IACNT- بهاران خجسته باد!  March 21st marked the beginning of the Persian New Year, Nowruz, which celebrates the arrival of Spring. Iranians have celebrated this tradition and other ancient traditions such as Charshanbeh Sori (the Fire Festival) and Sizdah-bedar (the annual picnic) for thousands of years. Shortly after the 1979 Revolution and the establishment of a theoretical regime in Iran, the government gradually banned many of these ancient traditions. However, people, in defiance, celebrate these events regardless of the imposed bans. This year, even political prisoners in Iran celebrated the Fire Festival inside prison and sent a video out for the public.

As a tradition and in solitary with Iranians inside the country, North Texans gathered to mark the beginning of the year 1394 in the Persian Calendar.  The celebration started with Ey Iran, the Iranian national anthem of the pre-mullahs era. On behalf of the IACNT, Mr. Shirani wished everyone here, our family and friends in Camp Liberty, and Iranians all over the world a happy and prosperous New Year. In the next section, Dr. Jahansouz, a member of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, welcomed and briefed audience members on current events and emphasized the need to become united against the mullahs in Iran. Folk dancing, singing, and dancing to Persian music concluded the evening with hugs and well wishes shared by all. And not to mention the assortment of Persian food and pastries!