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Ghazal Omid
Ghazal Omid is an award-winning author, commentator, lecturer, and religious scholar. Born and raised in Iran of Kurdish-Persian ancestry, Omid is a Canadian citizen and a U.S legal permanent resident. Drawing from her diverse heritage, Omid has dedicated her life to finding common ground between people of all faiths and backgrounds. A leading commentator on cultural and religious affairs, Omid has published an award-winning memoir, Living In Hell, and has provided hundreds of radio interviews and television appearances, including appearances on leading cable news networks such as Fox News, MSNBC, CNN, and CSPAN. In addition, Omid has consulted for members of the United States Senate and House of Representatives on matters pertaining to Iran, human rights, and the peaceful integration of Islam into American society.
Omid is the founder and executive director of Iran & Its Future.org, a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to promoting intercultural exchange and understanding. Through a variety of arts and education programs, Iran & Its Future.org has distinguished itself as a vital bridge between the Muslim and western world. Under Omid's stewardship, Iran & Its Future.org has spearheaded a number of groundbreaking cross-cultural initiatives, such as founding an online Iranian and Persian art museum, establishing a dental exchange program, and sponsoring a performance and concert series featuring some of the Iran's most compelling artists and musicians. In working closely with a wide range of NGOs, individual philanthropists, international organizations and governments, Iran & Its Future.org has been an instrumental force for correcting misrepresentations and misconceptions about the Iranian people while heralding the rich legacy of Persian artistic and democratic achievements.
Omid's latest project, Mr. Nightingale, is a children's story that tells the tale of a young girl and her best friend and pet bird, Mr. Nightingale. With its moving prose and delightful illustrations, Mr. Nightingale reinforces a timeless message of compassion and generosity. A large portion of the proceeds of the book will be used to provide medical treatment for eight Iranian children who were disfigured in a 2006 fire accident.
Over the last six years, these children have been unable to afford surgery and medical care to restore their limbs and faces. Through the hard work of Iran & Its Future.org and its countless supporters and allies, Mr. Nightingale hopes to finally provide the funding and resources necessary to transport the children to the United States where they will receive the care they need.
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