A Statement from the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America on the events of January 6, 2021

The Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (FEZANA) is appalled by recent events that attempted to thwart the machinery of democracy; and instead, advance both physically and symbolically, an autocratic mob-driven takeover of the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C. This egregious act is unacceptable in the 2021 western diaspora, and goes against the grain of everything that is American. If this sad blemish on America has demonstrated anything, it is that freedom is earned and delicate, requiring vigilance and responsible stewardship to survive and thrive.

Many Zoroastrians who migrated to the west did so often to flee oppression, fascism and authoritarian regimes. They did so with the hope of living freely in America in a democracy that has been revered and referred to as that Shining City on a Hill. 

For centuries, the United States has nurtured democracy and served as an example for the world to emulate. Now the country stands on the precipice of a new era. A time to rekindle healing, neighborliness and kindness. Americans and the incoming administration have an opportunity to return the country to its better angels and ideals, and to diffuse the rhetoric, divisiveness and racism that permeates today within a dangerous and lingering undercurrent of society.  

We pray for light over darkness, for the forces of good to triumph over evil, and for a return to truth and righteousness during this period of unprecedented division.

Hamāzor Hamā Ashō-bēd! May we all be united in strength and righteousness!
Atha Jamyad Yatha Afrinami! May we achieve what we have prayed for!