In Iranian and Afghan communities, the beginning of spring is the New Year and is one of the most important times of the year. Our new year is called Nowruz, which means new day. Falling on March 20 or 21st, depending on the exact time of the spring equinox, is a time of new beginning for all Iranians, Afghans, and Zoroastrians.
Over the past few years, Nowruz has become more well known in America; however, it still goes unacknowledged by most. Students get days off of school for Christian and Jewish holidays, but I’ve never gotten a day off for Nowruz. When I was in elementary school, I remember that if the exact time of Nowruz fell while I was in school, my parents wouldn’t make me go to school that day. Even though it’s more of a cultural holiday than a religious one, it deserves recognition in schools and communities.
Aside from spending time with family, setting up a haft-seen, and sharing memorable meals, Nowruz celebrates nature and combines American holidays, such as Halloween, Christmas, and Easter. The haft-seen is the table of seven s we set up this table before the new year as the objects on it symbolize life, reflection, wealth, health, and new beginnings. It is important to celebrate this cultural new year to welcome and acknowledge the seasonal change. I believe that it is even more important to celebrate Nowruz in America because it is how Iranians, Afghans, and other Zoroastrians keep their culture alive. It is essential to keep these unique traditions even when living in a culturally mixed place like America because it keeps us connected to our culture, despite physical distances. Staying true to our roots in America also means that there are more opportunities to include and educate others about different cultural identities and traditions. America prides itself on being a “melting pot” of all cultures, and I think the way to do that is to respectfully participate in all kinds of cultures, traditions, and festivities. In a melting pot such as this one, it is vital to embrace the unique qualities of one’s culture so that it doesn’t get lost among other traditions.
By embracing our cultural roots, we openly accept the intersection of our identities. We put our racial and ethnic differences aside for these festivities and focus on and celebrate our shared culture. Nowruz is the biggest holiday for Iranians and Afghans and often is their favorite time of year. For me, Nowruz is not only my favorite time of the year but also when I can reconnect with my cultural identity, remind myself of my cultural standing in America, and renew my goals and hopes for the upcoming year.
Cultural expression in America and anywhere in the world is not limited to holidays. Still, it is essential to everyday life as cultural expression becomes part of identity as you develop your likes and dislikes over the years. Cultural expression is reflected in your daily rituals, foods, and even the music you enjoy. The author of hausarbeit schreiben lassen helped with the design of the text.