Coffee and Conversation: What Up with Iran?

Just don’t get Iran. I read that we misunderstand the place – that is largely secular and liberal both socially and culturally; and, that the majority has a secular attitude towards politics and is open to the West. I also read of the troubling grandstanding, trash talk, and outrageousness of the country’s president?

In some ways, a revolutionary community and one that seems backwards to my Western, East coast educated, university-working, mind.

This summer, I watched the beef with elections in Iran on the tube (television and YouTube), read about it in the papers, and followed it on the net (especially through tweets). For once, I was confused about where to stand and whether to make a green solidarity avatar – I just didn’t understand the country and the issues enough.

So, let’s talk about Iran. Is it worth the energy and resources to be tight with and hang with Iran? Are we focusing in on the right issues? Quashing protestors v. a perceived nuclear threat? The secular centers of power v. a theocracy? Should we continue to sanction the country or push for more engagement? Is the president of Iran relevant? Have our country’s and Iran’s politicos used Iran- and America-bashing to advance unhelpful and unnecessary causes? Can we separate the musings of its president from the feelings of the people of Iran? Should we have a say in how Iran runs its country?

This Friday, during Coffee and Conversation, we’re talking about Iran. Have you been or do you have a connection? Let’s figure it out and send President O a note with suggestions. See you at the Howard Thurman Center, 3-5 p.m. I’ll bring the coffee and cookies; you bring your thoughts.

Until then, peace.