Roya Hakakian

Roya Hakakian, an author and journalist, joins Mohammad Jafar Mahallati, a former Iranian official turned peace advocate, to discuss Mahallati's controversial time at Oberlin College. They delve into Mahallati's complex past and the students' unawareness of his role in a regime linked to human rights abuses. The conversation covers the intricacies of post-9/11 peace efforts, the haunting legacy of Iran's mass executions in 1988, and the ethical dilemmas facing academic institutions when vetting their faculty.

Roya Hakakian, an Iranian American Jewish journalist and author, shares her gripping journey from Iran to the U.S. She delves into the stark realities of the 1979 revolution and the misplaced alliances that led to current turmoil. The discussion covers the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the exploitation of Palestinian struggles by corrupt leaders, and the fight for women's rights in Iran. Hakakian's insights bridge historical injustices with modern challenges, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse perspectives in global conflicts.

In this conversation, Roya Hakakian, an author and poet who immigrated from Iran, shares her heartfelt journey to America. She reflects on the bittersweet nature of immigration and the emotional complexities tied to identity. Roya highlights the warmth of American customer service as a comforting contrast to her past. The discussion delves into the paradox of comfort and insecurity in U.S. life, the challenges of navigating social justice, and the importance of embracing America's diverse identities, particularly from immigrant perspectives.