payvand:
On Friday, May 20, years of effort paid off with the announcement of the new multiple entry visa policy for Iranian students.
You may know me as the first Iranian-American woman to go into space, but not long ago, I was just another Iranian student in the US and familiar with many challenges that students face as they pursue their dreams and a better life. I would not be known as the first Iranian-American woman in space if I did not have that opportunity.
I want to ensure that the students of today continue to have the same chances I did. By changing the single entry visa policy, the US has ensured that Iranian students do not have to choose between their family and their future.
The National Iranian American Council (NIAC) played an instrumental role in calling for this regulation to be changed, raising the issue on Capitol Hill, with the White House, and collaborating with student groups and Iranian Americans across the country.
Although most Iranian Americans themselves will not be directly impacted by the new policy, the important thing is that the community stood together to work for what we knew was right.
And the Obama administration trusted us and showed that they listen to our community.
Congratulations and thank you to everyone who helped make this possible. In particular, enormous credit must go to the student group MEVISA and their efforts.
However, our work is not done:
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Iranian students here in the US were some of the most effective advocates for changing the policy, yet the new rules will not apply to them. Let's change that!
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Sanctions on airline parts continue to put the lives of hundreds of innocent Iranians at risk. Yet, new, more indiscriminate sanctions are still being rolled out on Capitol Hill.
Only with your support can we address these issues. With a pledge of $100 or more today you canhelp NIAC reach its goal of $100,000 by June 30, so they can help students here and ensure that no lives are lost in avoidable plane accidents.
Since 2002, NIAC has built a solid track record of success. Whether it's stopping war, fixing visa policies, or fighting discrimination in the media and the public sphere, NIAC has consistently delivered results.
Your support of NIAC over the years has ensured that there is an effective and strong voice in Washington DC for the Iranian-American community and with your contributions you will help keep our community's voice strong and heard in Washington DC!
Thank you!
Anousheh Ansari
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