By Sepi Homayoun |

I was born and raised in Iran and experienced the upheaval of the Revolution firsthand, escaping with my family at the age of 12. Having witnessed the atrocities of conflict in the Middle East, the events of October 7th are particularly chilling. The current rise of antisemitism, echoing dark moments from history, is a terrifying time for our Jewish brothers and sisters worldwide.

I arrived in the United States during a period when Iranians faced a ban, making it challenging to secure status in this country. While some perceived it as discrimination, my family viewed it as our responsibility to demonstrate our commitment to the chosen country of migration. America exercised caution while vetting migrants from the Middle East, which given the geopolitical context, made sense to me. As a 14-year-old Muslim kid, I keenly observed the freedoms extended to me as a newcomer. I was given ample opportunities to succeed, experiencing minimal discrimination at school. Many reached out to assist our family in integrating into our new society, fostering a deep appreciation for this country and its citizens. I recognized that the same nation that imposed restrictions on Iranians also provided every opportunity for us to thrive.

It goes without saying that religious discrimination or violence of any kind is reprehensible. Recently, I spoke to the attendees at a local Jewish Temple regarding the alarming antisemitism crisis on our college campuses and the depth of their fear. The stories shared were deeply unsettling, evoking a sense of shock that transported me back to age 14 again.

Regardless of political affiliation, we can all agree that every child deserves to feel safe at school, including our Jewish children. Sadly, a Chandler School Board Member, Patti Serrano, does not appear to feel that same way. Serrano’s sponsorship of an event at ASU featuring Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12) raises concerns about her judgment as a non-partisan school board member. Tlaib, a member of Congress recently censured for her antisemitic rallying cry, was invited to ASU, adding fuel to the fire of antisemitism prevalent on many campuses. This was on the heels of Jewish students at ASU having to be escorted back to their residence by campus police due to death threats and rock throwing at an ASU student government meeting. How can our Jewish children feel safe at school knowing there is an elected official in charge of their schools that is willing to take such a clear stance against them? Serrano is undoubtedly allowed to exercise her First Amendment rights and speak her mind. However, in her capacity as a non-partisan school board member representing all children, not just non-Jewish children, is it wise?

While politics can be messy, it’s crucial not to stand by in silence. We, as a community in Chandler, must stand in solidarity with our Jewish community members. Calling for accountability, urging Patti Serrano’s resignation, and actively supporting the safety of ALL children in our schools are essential steps. Let us use our voices and get involved to ensure EVERY child, regardless of their background, feels secure at school.

Sepi Homayoun is a resident of Chandler and a concerned citizen and mother.