The Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (“FEZANA”) offers its deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Mr. George Floyd.  We stand in solidarity with Black and other communities of color, with Minneapolis, and with all those who are grieving Mr. Floyd’s loss and the absence of justice in their respective communities.

Mr. Floyd’s killing violates our most dearly-held values of equality, human rights and the sanctity of human life.  The violence and callous disregard for a precious human life demonstrated by his killers must not and cannot be tolerated.  We unequivocally condemn racial profiling, violence and brutality in all its forms, and join all people of conscience in calling for accountability and justice. 

The disproportionate pain and violence being experienced by communities of color demonstrates how structural racism can be and is embedded in our institutions.  In recent weeks alone, we have learned that communities of color have disproportionately suffered from the COVID-19 pandemic, and our Black brothers and sisters – Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and too many more – have been killed because of the color of their skin.  As Zoroastrians, we take to heart the principles of one of our most sacred prayers, the Yatha Ahu Vairyo, of working hard for those experiencing difficulty or need.  In addition to calling for justice, we also commit ourselves to the hard work of healing, learning to resolve conflict without violence, examining racial injustice, and working towards peace within our cities, communities, families and ourselves. 

Atha Jamyad Yatha Afrinami.  May we achieve what we have prayed for.