Iranian Diaspora Identities

This work explores the rich narratives of the Iranian diaspora, showcasing their unique experiences and transformations through storytelling and performance. Iranian Diaspora Identities highlights these journeys.

This book presents a rich tapestry of oral history, storytelling, and ethnographic research, weaving together the complex narratives of contemporary Iranian diaspora experiences. Iranian Diaspora Identities serves as a unique archive, capturing the transformations faced by Iranian exiles in areas such as family dynamics, gender roles, and spiritual beliefs. The collaborative effort between two Iranian-American immigrants—a musician and artist alongside a professor—brings forth a compelling artistic vision that highlights the resilience and adaptability of this community.

Through a combination of ethnographic, dramatistic, and oral history methods, Ziba Shirazi meticulously gathered stories from Iranians residing in California and Toronto, particularly in the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The editors not only transcribed these personal narratives but also crafted them into short performance pieces that incorporate lyrics and songs. These performances have reached thousands across theater venues and libraries in both the United States and Canada, creating a dynamic platform for sharing these important stories.

Beyond simply documenting experiences, Iranian Diaspora Identities advocates for a new methodology in recording accounts from the Iranian diaspora. It contributes significantly to the existing literature on this subject and enhances qualitative research in communication studies. The book stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in understanding and representing the complexities of identity within immigrant communities.