The Iranian community in Istanbul is one of the most dynamic and active in the city. It is also one of the most open and generous. Iranian dinners welcome people from different cultures, with delicious homemade dishes served in abundance. There are gatherings, performances, and music events hosted by families in their homes, in Iranian cafés in Kadıköy, and in many other places. It is a community that has created a vibrant cultural life and is always ready to share it with others.
After the recent deterioration of the political situation in the Middle East, many Iranian friends had to leave Istanbul. It has become very difficult to obtain Turkish residency. Istanbul became home to many people who cannot return to their own countries because of war, repression, or persecution. Many have had to face danger, fear, and the unknown after leaving Istanbul.
Farnaz graciously shares her reflections on the feeling of home and inspires many of us not to lose heart during these times, and to find poetry in life wherever we may be.
After the recent deterioration of the political situation in the Middle East, many Iranian friends had to leave Istanbul. It has become very difficult to obtain Turkish residency. Istanbul became home to many people who cannot return to their own countries because of war, repression, or persecution. Many have had to face danger, fear, and the unknown after leaving Istanbul.
Farnaz graciously shares her reflections on the feeling of home and inspires many of us not to lose heart during these times, and to find poetry in life wherever we may be.
Poems, photography, voice: Farnaz Abbasi Yazdi