The recent outbreak of hostilities in Iran has profoundly affected students of Iranian descent studying in Canada. As violence escalates following government crackdowns on protests, many find themselves grappling with fear and anxiety for their loved ones back home. In a poignant reflection of the situation, students in Hessam Dehghani’s Persian culture class at the University of British Columbia (UBC) are navigating a complex emotional landscape as they confront the realities of war and its potential implications for their families.
Student Reactions to the Crisis
In a recent class session, Dehghani observed a palpable atmosphere of distress among his students, many of whom were engrossed in their phones, either crying or expressing deep concern for family members in cities like Tehran. “I couldn’t even begin to teach,” he recounted. “It was more than just happiness or sadness; it was a heavy cloud of worry that filled the room.” Recognising the emotional turmoil, he encouraged open discussions and reflective writing, creating a space for students to articulate their feelings.
The ongoing conflict has cast a long shadow over the Iranian diaspora in Canada, where an estimated 6,000 individuals of Iranian heritage are employed in academic institutions. In 2023 alone, over 20,000 Iranian students were enrolled in Canadian post-secondary institutions, a striking figure considering the lack of formal diplomatic relations between the two nations for over a decade. Many of these students are pursuing advanced degrees, with a significant proportion holding master’s degrees or PhDs—more than double the rate of the general Canadian population.
A Flourishing Academic Community
Dehghani, who relocated to Canada five years ago after completing his studies in Iran, now leads one of the few Persian studies programmes outside Iran. His programme offers a range of classes, with enrolments varying from 20 to 100 students, and includes courses taught in both English and Farsi. This academic community provides a vital connection for students, many of whom are attracted to Canada’s welcoming immigration policies and the opportunity to thrive in an environment free from the constraints they faced in Iran.
Mitra Sabetghadam, a PhD candidate in biomedical science at the University of Saskatchewan and president of the Iranian Students Association, echoes these sentiments. Having moved to Canada in 2021 after participating in protests in Iran, she now stands at a crossroads of hope and anxiety. “We are happy, but at the same time, we are worried for our families,” she shared, highlighting her uncertainty about the safety of her family in Northern Iran, where communication has been disrupted. Sabetghadam’s desire for freedom for her people remains resolute, despite the risks involved.
Connections to Tragedy
The impact of the Iranian conflict is not merely abstract for these students; it is deeply personal. The tragic downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 in 2020, which resulted in the deaths of 176 people, including 55 Canadians and numerous students, serves as a stark reminder of the ties between Iran and Canada. Many academic institutions, including the University of Alberta, lost students and faculty, further solidifying the connection between the two nations.
Farzad Khalvati, a senior scientist and chair in medical imaging and artificial intelligence at the University of Toronto, reflects on his own experiences. Having left Iran 25 years ago, he witnessed the tumultuous environment that drove him to seek a more stable life in Canada. “I just wanted to have a very normal life, nothing more,” he stated, adding that he has remained in contact with his parents in Iran, who share a blend of worry and hope for change. “They are hopeful that after 47 years, real change could happen,” he remarked.
Why it Matters
The emotional toll of the current conflict in Iran resonates deeply within the Iranian student community in Canada, as they balance their educational aspirations with the heart-wrenching realities faced by their families back home. This situation underscores the importance of solidarity and support systems in academic environments, as students navigate their dual identities amid global crises. As they strive for a brighter future, their voices and experiences enrich the multicultural fabric of Canada, reminding us of the profound connections that bind us across borders.
