Political Quotes

“I rise today to commemorate Nowruz, the traditional Iranian New Year, which begins with the arrival of spring on the Vernal Equinox. More than 1 million Iranian Americans in the United States as well as millions of Iranians and others around the world celebrate Nowruz, which embodies the ideals of understanding and appreciation of others. Universally, the beginning of spring is associated with rebirth. At this festive time, when Mother Nature is beginning a new cycle and families around the world are gathering to celebrate a new calendar year, I would like to appeal to the good will of the Iranian government by calling for the immediate release of Joshua Fattal, Sarah Shourd, and Shane Bauer. These three young American hikers have spent almost 8 months in confinement in Iran's Evin prison for allegedly crossing a poorly marked border. We are heartened that the Iranians recently allowed the three young Americans to call their families for the first time since their detention on July 31 last year. Still, we ask at the beginning of Persian New Year that Josh, Sarah, and Shane be released to celebrate a spring with their desperately concerned parents and other family members.”