The Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans, PAAIA

We know that many in the Iranian American community are deeply distressed and outraged by recent developments in our country. Like you, we are alarmed by reports of arrests carried out this past week by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), particularly those targeting individuals who were granted humanitarian parole through CBP One. 

Among those reportedly detained - notably reported by Pastor Ara Torosian in LA - are members of the Iranian Christian community seeking asylum. These arrests have re-traumatized individuals who fled to the United States in search of safety and freedom.  

PAAIA has been hearing from our Trustees and the broader spectrum of community members across the country. You—our fellow citizens, professionals, parents, students, and neighbors—are stalwarts of and believers in the rule of law and its due process protections and national security. And yet, many of you now fear these very principles are at risk.

You’ve also voiced deep concern for individuals like Donna Kashanian, who has lived peacefully in the U.S. for 47 years while reportedly complying with immigration protocols.  Her detention has also struck a nerve—the idea that someone so deeply rooted in our communities could be so simply uprooted is indeed heartbreaking and unacceptable. 

These arrests raise serious questions for all of us. If these individuals posed public safety threats, why were actions not taken previously? The timing and nature of these arrests appears to lack grounded reasoning rooted in national security. 

PAAIA is taking action. We are engaged and closely in contact with our legislative allies and policy contacts across Capitol Hill to advocate for those affected and to demand transparency and accountability for each case. PAAIA stands firmly with the Iranian American community.

Now is not the time to remain silent.

If you or someone you know may be impacted:

Please visit our Travel Ban Center to understand your rights, protections, and resources.

We urge you to review this Know-Your-Rights guide and this one. Students should read this one carefully.

If you or a loved one has been affected, we are here to help. Reach us at info@paaia.org with all the information about you or your loved one. 

With love, 
Team PAAIA