National Iranian American Council
About National Iranian American Council
Founded in 2002, the National Iranian American Council (NIAC) emerged from a fundamental recognition: Iranian Americans, despite their remarkable achievements and contributions to American society, lacked adequate representation in civic and political decision-making processes. Based in Washington, DC, NIAC has grown into a vital voice for a community that includes engineers, scientists, academics, and entrepreneurs who have built successful lives across the United States.
NIAC's mission reflects a deep commitment to community empowerment and justice. The organization envisions a world where Iranian Americans have genuine agency in decisions affecting their lives and futures. This vision drives two complementary entities: NIAC Action, which builds political power to advance peace, equitable immigration policies, and civil rights protections, and NIAC, the 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the Iranian-American community directly.
What distinguishes NIAC is its grassroots, community-centered approach. Funded entirely by the Iranian-American community and prominent American foundations—never by government sources—NIAC operates with transparency and independence. The organization actively responds to community needs through initiatives like tracking ICE detentions affecting Iranian nationals, providing resources for those facing travel restrictions, and mobilizing community action for peace. NIAC's work reflects the values of a community seeking not special treatment, but equitable recognition of their contributions and protection of their rights as Americans. By centering community voices in policy discussions, NIAC continues to build political power and civic engagement for Iranian Americans across the nation.