Arseh Sevom–The complete annual report for 2012 is now ready for reading. The report does more than outline our organization’s accomplishments and finances over the past year, it also presents an overview of the context for civil society in Iran. Board President Bert Taken says, “During my two short visits to Iran in the mid 2000s, I was struck by the energy, creativity, and warmth of the people we met traveling through the country. During one trip, we brought several students and docents of Amsterdam’s Rietveld Academy for a two-week trip. We had tried to make plans in advance and were a bit frustrated at the difficulty of actually getting our schedules completely booked in advance. Would the trip be a disaster, we wondered? From the minute we arrived, however, our trip went like clockwork. Artists, architects, designers, and others were generous with their time and experiences, sharing so much with the group. This really gave me faith in the power of surprise when it comes to Iran. It reminds me that even in the darkest moments, that energy is out there, waiting for the opportunity. Even now, there are people who want nothing more than to work for a better society. Iran is not done surprising us, of that I am sure.” Read more
