Southern Oregon University - Hannon Library

In an interview at Payvands’ Iran News regarding her trip to Iran in March 2007, Dr. Catherine Thomasson said, “The major purpose of the visit was to convey to Iranians that there were Americans who were interested in engaging in a dialogue and to bring back a first hand account to the United States to educate policy makers and the public about the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to overcome our differences.”

“Our biggest challenge is to realize that those who choose violence over dialogue are our brothers and sisters and do so with the best of intentions. With few exception, human beings have not become aware of the cosmic web that connects all humanity. Ultimately we cannot hurt others without hurting ourselves. It may take many lifetimes to reach that realization.” said Mr. Fariborz Pakseresht North America First South Asian Outlook.