NEW YORK — The ongoing conflict in Iran has left many Iranian Americans grappling with complex emotions as they consider how to celebrate Nowruz, the Iranian New Year. For some, celebrating feels bittersweet, caught between hope and sadness for their homeland.
Kayvon Pourmirzaie and his wife, Behnaz Almazi, chose to participate in a Persian pop-up dinner in Manhattan. “Nowruz represents a chance to showcase the beauty of Iran,” Pourmirzaie shared. “We don’t want war, but I feel strongly about celebrating our culture.”
This year’s celebrations take on a different meaning as tensions rise. Joy clashes with sorrow: excitement over potentially ending a repressive regime battles with fear for loved ones still in Iran. For many in the diaspora, the feelings are mixed. They celebrate, yet carry guilt about their relative safety in the U.S.
Nowruz typically brings together communities for shared meals filled with vibrant dishes like kuku sabzi, symbolizing fresh starts. However, many events across the country have shifted or been canceled entirely. “We want to show respect for people suffering back home,” said Saeed Shafiyan Rad from the Iranian Association of Boston.
The war has also revealed divides within the Iranian diaspora, especially among younger generations who have never lived in Iran. Hedi Yousefi, who organized a Nowruz bazaar in New York, faced backlash for her decision to celebrate. “Hosting this event is an act of resistance against the regime,” she noted. “I felt it was important to honor our traditions.”
On social media, influencers like Omid Afshar are exploring their roots through cooking. “Making Persian dishes helps me reconnect with my identity,” he stated. For many, cooking has become a bridge to cultural heritage, especially when living in a different environment.
Persis Karim, a former director at the Center for Iranian Diaspora Studies, expressed her struggles with celebration amidst the chaos. “I love this holiday, but it feels wrong to celebrate when my family is suffering.” She wishes for change to come from within Iran rather than through foreign intervention.
Others, like Nasim Alikhani, decided to carry on their festivities despite the conflicts. Even with a war looming, Alikhani said, “Iran has been through invasions before, yet we’ve held on to our traditions. We’ll pray for peace, but the food will definitely be on the table.”
Business at Persian restaurants usually thrives during Nowruz, but this year, attendance is mixed. In areas with strong opposition to the conflict, many are avoiding celebrations. In Los Angeles, however, support for the Iranian community has kept restaurants buzzing with customers eager to celebrate. “When news breaks, we see a spike in business,” noted Farinaz Pirshirazi, co-owner of Toranj restaurant.
In light of the recent turmoil, some traditions have taken on new meanings. With the upheaval in Iran, many opted for halva, a sweet often served during mourning, as a playful nod to recent events. “It’s kind of a sarcastic celebration,” Pirshirazi explained. “We’re finding joy in unexpected places.”
As Nowruz approaches, the Iranian American community finds itself at a crossroads, blending celebration with reflection on their complex identity and heritage. The interplay of tradition and current events showcases resilience and a longing for peace, hope, and connection.
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Life,War, through food’s lens
