Free screening of Iran documentary at UHH

Global Hope invites the public to a free screening of globetrotting filmmaker Rick Steves’ “Iran: Yesterday and Today” at 7 p.m. April 11, in Room UCB 100 at the University of Hawaii at Hilo.

A veteran travel guide who believes people-to-people experiences can be a powerful force for peace, Steves found Iran to be the “most surprising and fascinating land” he’s ever visited. He reports that the people were friendly and welcoming and very definite about their desire for peace.

Iranians expressed genuine liking for Americans, said Steves. “I’ve never traveled to a place where I had such an easy and enjoyable time connecting with people.”

“At a time when world powers are urging the U.S. to use diplomacy over military attack, this is a good opportunity to learn about Iran and her people,” said Global Hope spokeswoman Bunny Smith.

“Iran has not invaded any country for over 200 years and has no military bases outside its borders. However, it is surrounded by over 40 U.S. military bases close in outside its own borders. Iranians don’t forget that the U.S. overthrew their democratically elected government in 1953, starting years of repression under the shah,” Smith said. For more information, please call her at 935-0622.

For directions to reach the UH-Hilo program site, check the campus map at http://hilo.hawaii.edu for room location.