A Persianist's definitions

Persianism

A cultural and civilizational identity centered on Iran’s pre-Islamic Persian heritage, advocating for a return to indigenous Persian values, language, symbols, and secular self-rule. Persianism emphasizes cultural continuity, national sovereignty, and freedom from religious governance imposed after the 7th century. It rejects being forced into modern geopolitical labels and asserts the right of Iranians to define themselves on their own historical and cultural terms.

“Calling Iranian secularists ‘Zionist’ makes no sense—what they stand for is Persianism.”
"She’s not aligned with any religious ideology—she’s a Persianist who wants a secular Iran rooted in its own history and values."

by A Persianist February 6, 2026