By Abdolrahman Faramarzi
Translated from the original, which appeared in the first issue of Kayhan
The following is an excerpt from an editorial which originally appeared in the first issue of Kayhan 75 years ago. It was written at a time when Iran was still suffering from the deep wounds that it had sustained under a tyrannical rule in its recent past. No sooner had the country begun to enjoy the fruits of the Constitutional Revolution than it became a strategic battleground for major rivals in WWII.
Although written three-quarters of a century ago, the editorial highlights the basic human rights that have been denied the Iranian nation throughout history and even today. The poignant and timeless assertions in this editorial fill the reader with pride and give cause for deep reflection.
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This is not a newspaper that promotes a negative viewpoint. It will not sacrifice the country’s interest in an attempt to deceive the nation. This newspaper will work tirelessly for the country’s true independence, renewal and progress. Its mission is to safeguard the constitution, constitutional rule and the independence of our beloved nation. It will confront those who attack Iran through their rhetoric and their actions. It will resist those whose ostensible sympathy for provincial identity threatens our national unity.
We envision a culture that is appropriate for our society – a culture that, instead of fostering a generation of speakers and servants, prepares our vibrant society for struggle and survival.
We believe that the Iranian nation endured great hardship and suffered many injustices during the previous rule [of Reza Shah]. It is also true that significant reforms were introduced during the same period. These positive measures were implemented at great cost to the nation. It is, therefore, our duty to safeguard and develop these achievements.
We envision a freedom-loving, free-spirited and free-thinking Iranian nation that doesn’t equate religion with prejudice and superstition. It must realize that the role of religion is not to propagate, but rather to eradicate superstition.
Women’s liberation was one of the most significant and courageous steps taken during a time of great pressure and tyranny in our history. Ironically, numerous reforms were implemented in Iran during the same period. We must reinforce these progressive measures. Iranian women should realize that they have the same rights as their husbands, fathers and brothers. They have the right to vote and make life choices. For their part, Iranian men must acknowledge and respect those rights.
We also advocate improvement in the living conditions of farmers, workers, and the whole of Iranian society. Iranian farmers and workers live in dire conditions. They are exploited and robbed by a small group of selfish people.
We are also concerned about hygiene, because good health is paramount. An unhealthy person cannot enjoy life’s blessings. In the same way, a nation whose population is not healthy and strong is not truly alive.
We should entrust the future of our country to an educated, enlightened, experienced and conscientious young generation. This is the only way to ensure lasting reforms and a bright future for our country.
Principles of national revival
National revival respects and recognizes freedom as the driving force behind social development, innovation and creativity.
National Revival:
- Believes that every human being of whatever station, title and status deserves respect.
- Asserts that an injustice committed against one person is an injustice committed against society as a whole.
- Aims to increase citizens’ awareness of justice.
- Calls for all forms of discrimination to be eradicated.
- Believes aptitude and competence to be the true sources of human progress.
- Asserts that jobs, wages and responsibilities should match knowledge, skills and qualifications
- Encourages the public to develop greater interest in the country’s affairs
- Urges the public to play a meaningful role in social and national spheres
- Tirelessly promotes cooperation, work ethics, honesty, transparency and civic duties
- Believes that cooperation and not individualism is the key to national development.
- Declares family as the foundation of a stable society.
- Celebrates family as the primary source of fostering talents and encouraging group work and cooperation
- Considers insurance and social security as basic necessities for the welfare of Iranian families
- Believes that women keep families together
- Recognizes women’s potential and capabilities
- Urges women to fulfill their national and social responsibilities
- Cherishes the country’s human resource.
- Works toward creating a strong and vibrant Iran
- Regards management as the country’s key administrative component
- Calls for training of managers in various fields and institutions and at leadership level
- Believes in young people’s ability to move the country forward
- Creates an environment in which the country’s spirited youths are nurtured, fostered and strengthened
- Advocates the rights of farmers and workers who are the backbone of the country
- Remains steadfast in its efforts to improve the quality of life and social status for farmers and workers
- Acknowledges economic development as the country’s top priority
- Works tirelessly to develop industries, agriculture and the national economy
- Supports and promotes trade unions and cooperatives
- Considers receiving basic education a vital necessity.
- Believes that educated professionals play a major role in the country’s development
- Promotes education and specialized training in various fields
- Believes that the latest scientific research and developments should be made available to the nation
- Supports Iranian arts and artists.
- Acknowledges the role of the arts in unifying society and utilizing human resources
- Reaffirms commitment to national culture and art
- Safeguards and promotes meaningful customs and traditions
- Asserts that Iranians must posses deep understanding of their homeland
- Believes that a profound appreciation of our core identity leads to unity and strengthens the country’s national institutions
- Believes that all nations are members of a global community
- Helps Iran to join the international community by denouncing racism, national supremacy and extremism
- Believes that national dialogue strengthens friendship and international cooperation
- Works tirelessly to promote and expand interactions between Iran and other nations.
