Iranian-Americans in Politics: Interview with Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi
You know his name.
But how well do you really know him?
Check out our exclusive interview with charming Iranian-American and San Francisco elected official: Supervisor Ross Mirkarmi.
Where were you born and raised?
Chicago, (while attending unversity, my father, Hamid, met my mother there) [raised in] Rhode Island.
What schools have you attended?
Washington University/SLU in St.Louis/Monterey Institute of International Studies/University of San Francisco
What was your field of study?
Political Science; Russian Literature and Language; Graduate/Post – Environmental Science; Economics.
Do you speak and/or write Farsi?
Little.
Who has inspired you the most in life?
Women…no matter the culture, they still struggle and lead even when unnoticed.
What’s a favorite work/life experience you can share?
As an elected official I get great satisfaction in empowering the people; witnessing the dividend, especially on behalf of vulnerable and impoverished people is an experience worth repeating.
What’s your favorite book of all time?
Toss-up: One Hundred Years of Solitude and The Grapes of Wrath.
What book(s) are you reading now?
“The Ayatollah Begs to Differ” by Hooman Majd, and “How Fiction Works” by James Wood.
How did you get into public service?
My advocacy on behalf of progressive issues (environment, energy, anti-war, green, civil rights and social justice, etc.) and politicians led to my candidacy for the first time in 2004. I ran for office against 21 other candidates.
What world political leader (in history) do you admire the most?
There are many, here’s one: Benjamin Franklin.
Which American politico comes to mind, when you think of a role model for yourself?
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Bobby Kennedy, Susan B. Anthony, President-elect Obama.
What do you hope to accomplish in your career?
No one can answer this question without sounding cliche…make it better for community and country and mother earth.
Why should the Iranian-American community become more involved in civic affairs, in your opinion?
The choice is clear: Either help influence the agenda or let the agenda be dictated for us.
What’s your favorite Persian dish?
Pomegranate Chicken, Abgoosht Morgh, BBQ Kebob (chicken).
What does a day in your life entail? Let’s say a Monday.
Coffee, followed by 9 hours of meetings ranging from constituents to government, followed by community events, then dinner, usually late.
What are your thoughts on this year’s historic election?
True validation of this election depends on how bold the Obama administration acts, congress too.
What are the priority projects that are on your desk currently?
Reconciling a $500 million budget deficit for San Francisco; tackling poverty and the political correctness that hides it.
What three words would describe you best?
Tenacious, Pragmatic and Honest
We have a feeling you’re “the type of guy you want to have a beer with” as Obama has been said to be, are you?
Yes. This is the unspoken layer of where good listening habits build trust and friendship.
What’s the highest level of pulic service you’re willing to campaign for?
I am completely open to this question and challenge.
How can one stay current on your work and causes?
For newsletter email us: ross.mirkarimi@sfgov.org or www.rossmirkarimi.com
