Iranian Americans Mourn Crackdown with Adapted Chaharshanbe Suri

0:00Reporting from the Daily News, now, I'm Cory with the story, with the latest in Durham, Shima Razavi-Gasik, a 46-year-old Iranian-American in Los Angeles, skipped her usual house party for Shahar Shahn Bay Suri this week. Instead of a big bonfire, she organized a vigil at a local park on Tuesday night. The event honored protesters killed during Iran's January crackdown, where thousands lost their lives. Shahar Shahn Bay Suri is a key tradition before Nauru's, the Persian New Year. Families normally jump over fires to welcome spring and shake off the past year's troubles. But with recent violence fresh in mind, Razavi-Gasik adapted it into a somber gathering. Dozens of Iranian-Americans showed up, lighting candles and displaying photos of the slain demonstrators. They took turns hopping over small tea lights, blending grief with cultural ritual. It was a quiet way to keep family customs alive amid heartbreak. Razavi-Gasik said the spring holiday is usually full of joy, but this year felt different

1:01after the crackdown. Her event drew a crowd ready to mourn while holding onto their heritage. Meanwhile, similar adaptations are popping up in Iranian communities worldwide, as people balance celebration with calls for justice in Iran. The Daily News now is grateful to our sponsor for today's episode. Press Play. Put your head down. The sound is already there. S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com.