We're all Iranians

Source: Nature 460, 11-12 (2 July 2009) | doi:10.1038/460011a; Published online 1 July 2009

Well, I'm an Iranian and the recent unfoldings in Iran has engaged me to the extent that I don't have time to write about science anymore. But a few days ago, I stumbled upon this editorial from Nature, which truly impressed me both as a scientist and as an Iranian.

I've never been a fan of politics. Politicians hold a reactionary mindset, aiming at simplifying the matters down to meaningless words; however, a scientist is bent towards evidence and proof. There is no question that any public movement in any country should be both acknowledged and encouraged. But, what can we, in the scientific community accomplish?
1. Universities are very well equipped to speak loud and in clear... making clear that Iranians are supported by non-governmental entities across the world.
2. The recent events accompanied by massive crackdowns on academics followed by mass resignations and discontent, would urge many young Iranian academics to leave Iran. The colleges, universities and research institutions all across the world can accomplish a great deal by prioritizing these researchers for a while or at least create a more active network to find suitable jobs for them (something similar to Scholars at Risk Network).