Valentine’s Day is known as the symbol of love worldwide. There might not be any opposing ideas in an American classroom to the celebration of Valentine’s Day. It is considered a day when couples celebrate their love and partnership. We may also think that there is nothing wrong with Valentine’s Day and finding a reason to be happy. 

Whereas in Iran, the government suppresses Valentine’s Day as a sign of cultural invasion and westernization. Yet, Iranians celebrate it every year. 

First, the 1979 Islamic Revolution — the formation of a radical theocratic system by Rohullah Khomeini after the last monarch, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, left Iran — led to the suppression of any western ideas and the domination of extremism on the social and political levels. Religious leaders and clergymen gained ever-increasing power that often came, and still comes, with bloodshed and extreme suppression of the opposition. A blend of theocracy and nationalism in the political environment bans the diffusion of western values in the country.

 For instance, the celebration of Valentine’s Day is a type of westernization and cultural invasion in the eyes of Iranian officials. Since Valentine’s Day is a western or foreign-originated concept, they believe people must not celebrate it. Last year, Iranian florists and shopkeepers said to Radio Azadi that the government would not allow roses and red boxes to be sold during Valentine’s Day. 

It also has roots in the religious background of Iran. Since political leaders are often clergymen, a certain interpretation of religion overshadows the laws and regulations which are created by the very religiopolitical leaders. In addition, radicalism has gone far beyond preventing people from adopting Western values. In 2022, the morality police arrested and tortured Mahsa Amini for not wearing the burqa or mandatory cover for women which led to her death in a hospital and sparked the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement in and out of Iran. In other words, westernization is considered irreligious and immoral. 

On the contrary, Iranians celebrate Valentine’s Day. Because technological developments and easier communication have impacted them since 1979, especially the young generation who can receive information from all over the world. Despite the barriers and challenges, love cannot be banned. Not only have the government restrictions on Valentine’s Day not limited people, but also the meaning of Valentine’s Day has gone beyond love between married couples. Families and friends also celebrate it as a sign of togetherness, gratitude and happiness.

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