Banou's Accomplishments
Although our events are the most visible part of our activities, Banou has always pursued its goals of advancement and promotion of Iranian heritage within and without the Iranian-American community through less visible, but equally important venues as well. Although the ever-increasing attendance and popularity of our events, especially the Nowruz Gala, make us very proud, Banou has always strived to do a lot more. As a matter of fact, below you will find a list of some of the most notable success stories of Banou that complement our organizing and hosting of relevant cultural and community events.
Nowruz & Banou at the White House
One of our proudest moment came in March 2008 when for the first time in many years, Nowruz was presented and celebrated at the White House. We were honored that then First Lady Laura Bush paid a visit to our traditional "Haft Seen," which was set up earlier in the day in the White House. Banou used the opportunity to present and explain various aspects of Nowruz to present guests in an attempt to foster new dialogue and understanding of our culture and heritage to American leaders, an especially important task given the challenges of present-day times. This event was the culmination of many years of continuous and tireless efforts of Banou, Dr. & Mrs. Khatamee, and many volunteers who helped organize and celebrate this momentous occasion.
Nowruz & Banou - White House, March 2008
Dr. Masood Khatamee and First Lady Laura Bush
Nowruz & Banou - White House, March 2008
"Haft Seen"
Nowruz & Banou Day Declarations
Over the past 10 years, Banou has made a special effort in having Nowruz recognized by the political leadership at the local, state, and federal levels. In this regard, Banou has succeeded in obtaining official Nowruz declarations from the White House, State Senators and Governors, as well as the office of New York City Mayor that officially recognize the importance of our most significant national day and celebrate this occasion alongside all Iranian-Americans living in the United States.
Nowruz 2009 Proclamation by then Governor Corzine (NJ)
Presidential Proclamation of Nowruz - 2007
Nowruz Proclamation by then Senator Hilary R. Clinton (NY) - 2008
Supporting Charitable & Cultural Causes
Despite being a non-profit entity itself, Banou also devotes its efforts to help other organizations that are important to the advancement and celebration of our heritage. These organizations, most notably Encyclopedia Iranica, play a vital role in the cultural preservation and progress of the Iranian-American community, and Banou and its members have made significant contributions to these entities as well. For instance, Banou supported the 2007
Gala Benefit Dinner for Encyclopedia Iranica, held in May of that year at Columbia University, with the donation of a Jimmy Choo designer bag that was later sold at the Gala Auction, with all the proceeds going toward the Encyclopedia Iranica.