Gallery

Visiting my daughter’s Pre-K class at Cherokee Elementary was a reminder that public service begins with investing in the next generation. Teaching children about safety, community, and the role of law enforcement helps build trust, confidence, and stronger communities from an early age. As someone committed to service, I believe every child should know that those who protect and serve are their allies and friends.

Proud to share the Woman, Life, Freedom movement with the Phoenix Suns community. Standing with the Gorilla mascot, I was honored to raise awareness for the brave women and people of Iran fighting for freedom, dignity, and human rights with the team.

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I was honored to host Mrs. Lucille Bridges, mother of Ruby Bridges, in a powerful moment of reflection on courage, civil rights, and justice. Joined by Paradise Valley Police Chief John Wintersteen and the Mayor, it was a privilege to stand among leaders committed to service, unity, and community.

My family and I were smuggled out of the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1987 because of our Bahá’í faith, after facing systematic persecution and the denial of basic human rights. Our escape was dangerous and marked by days in the desert with little water, long journeys on foot, by riding camels and by truck, and constant uncertainty. Those early experiences shaped my lifelong commitment to human rights and ultimately my path in public advocacy and politics, standing up against religious persecution and defending freedom for all.

It was a pleasure to meet with Jim Lane on several occasions and to consider him a good friend. His vision, leadership, and dedication to community service have left a lasting impact on Scottsdale, and his support for countless local initiatives continues to strengthen our community.

In Washington, D.C., I was honored to meet with Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett, Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, to discuss the ongoing persecution, human rights abuses, and lack of religious freedom in Iran. Together, we highlighted the urgent need to stand with the Iranian people and hold the Islamic Republic accountable for its violations of fundamental human rights.

In 2013, in Washington, D.C., I was honored to meet with the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom and the Deputy Secretary of State to advocate for victims of religious persecution in Iran. These important discussions reinforced the need to hold the Islamic Republic accountable and defend the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people. Advocacy is not a moment, it’s a lifelong commitment.

In 2013 in Washington, D.C., I raised awareness about the unjust imprisonment of my two cousins in Iran, persecuted solely for their religious beliefs as members of the Bahá’í faith. I had the opportunity to meet Senator Mark Kirk and share my family’s story, including a photo of my relatives in prison. His leadership later contributed to introducing a resolution condemning the Islamic Republic’s continued persecution of Bahá’ís.

Honored to volunteer year after year at the Paradise Valley MLK Day Celebration, one of the community’s most meaningful and anticipated events. A special privilege was working alongside my brother, John Wintersteen, Chief of Police of Paradise Valley, in service to our community and the values of unity, leadership, and public service.

Honored to speak on behalf of Michelle Ugenti-Rita, former Arizona State Senator and State Representative, now running for Scottsdale City Council. A committed voice for freedom and strong leadership. Grateful to connect with Barry Goldwater Jr., Jan Dubauskas, and Joseph Chaplik at a meaningful gathering focused on shared values and civic engagement.

Honored to share a historic moment with my dear friend Parisa at an International Rescue Committee (IRC) event celebrating the U.S. citizenship of Guor Marial, the South Sudanese Olympic marathon runner whose remarkable journey inspired people around the world. A powerful reminder of the hope, opportunity, and freedom that America represents.

Honored to serve as a guest speaker and to be a voice for my brothers and sisters in Iran. Together, we raised awareness for the Woman, Life, Freedom movement and the ongoing struggle for liberty, human rights, and a free Iran.

Honored to moderate “Russia’s Shadow War: Perspectives from Ukrainian Veterans and Iranian Activists,” an important conversation highlighting frontline experiences, global security challenges, and the shared fight for freedom and human rights.

Honored to introduce my dear friend John Hook at a Nowruz event and special program dedicated to remembering the lives lost and standing in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Iran. A 36 year veteran Fox anchor, John is a multiple Emmy Award winner, five time Associated Press “Anchor of the Year,” and a member of the ASU Walter Cronkite School of Journalism Hall of Fame.

Honored to have met Senator John McCain a few times and to have had meaningful conversations about the Islamic Republic regime and the importance of standing for human rights and freedom. I will always remember him by his words: “America didn’t invent human rights. Those rights are common to all people: nations, cultures, and religions cannot choose to simply opt out of them.”

Honored to attend the first social event hosted by Cactus, Tryzub, and the Ukrainian-American Alumni Chapter at Arizona State University. Proud to stand alongside Ukrainian and Iranian voices united against repression and in support of freedom, community, and meaningful connections.

Great meeting with Representative David Cook to discuss the aspirations of the Iranian people and the importance of standing against tyranny and supporting freedom. Grateful for his leadership and commitment, which helped result in a House resolution in support of the Iranian people.

Great conversation with Mike Rogers about Iran’s future and ending 47 years of Islamic Republic sponsored terror. Proud to present him with a MIGA (Make Iran Great Again) hat and discuss the importance of freedom, security, and strong leadership.

During my time with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office DUI Task Force, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. and Mrs. DiPatri, who turned unimaginable tragedy into a mission to save lives after losing their son, Stephen, to a drunk driver. Their strength and advocacy reinforced my commitment to public safety, accountability, and protecting families from preventable loss.

At the Harvard Club of Phoenix annual dinner gala, I had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Her Excellency Claudia Pavlovich, and sharing the challenges and resilience of the Iranian people. A meaningful exchange on human rights, international solidarity, and the importance of standing with those seeking freedom.

At a press conference at Freedom House in Washington, D.C., followed by television and radio interviews with Payam e Doost and Noveen TV, I had the opportunity to raise awareness about the struggles of the Iranian people and the ongoing fight for freedom and human rights. I have always done my best to be a voice for my brothers and sisters in Iran whose voices have been silenced by the Islamic Terrorist.

An honor to spend time with Prince Reza Pahlavi, a thoughtful, principled leader whose vision for a free, democratic, and prosperous Iran continues to inspire millions. Fluent in multiple languages and deeply knowledgeable in history, politics, and international affairs, he brings a rare combination of wisdom, balance, and statesmanship. Many Iranians see him as a leading figure for a peaceful democratic transition and national unity. Grateful for his unwavering commitment to freedom, human rights, and the future of Iran.

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