Immigrant Iranian women in search of sociopolitical and religious freedoms

This study focuses on the causes of migration of female immigrants from Iran to the United States over the past several decades. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the main cause of migration was the pursuit of sociopolitical and religious freedom rather than just economic opportunities.;Fifteen women were interviewed for this study who emigrated from Iran both before the 1979 Revolution and afterwards. They were questioned about the causes of their migration. Those who emigrated after the 1979 were asked specifically what role the revolution had played in their decision to migrate. They were asked whether their emigration to America had improved their economic status. The questions also focused on their consciousness of patriarchy and gender equality in Iran and in the United States.;Their responses revealed that they primarily pursued sociopolitical and religious freedoms in the United States and maintained a middle-class status after their immigration. Their decision to leave Iran was a rejection of the cultural and political patriarchy that limited their freedoms and their economic opportunities. The immigration process enhanced their awareness and quest for gender equality. Their education here, their improved socioeconomic roles, and the freedom to exercise individuality gave them confidence and power in their relationships to negotiate some of the traditional gender roles and to question patriarchy.