About the Delegations:
 

At this crucial period in U.S.-Iran relations, the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR) is leading peace missions to reaffirm friendship and solidarity between the people of the United States and the people of Iran, and help seek alternatives to the current political standoff between the United States and Iranian governments.
 

Groups of U.S. citizens, religious leaders, academics, and peace activists travel to Iran in each delegation. These delegations help a diverse body of Americans to see firsthand the realities of life in today's Iran. At the same time, they allow a range of ordinary Iranians to encounter U.S. citizens as we really are, beyond the stereotypes that define many views of the West. Ultimately, the delegations enable a series of educational events, speaking tours, and advocacy at home.
 

When:
 

FOR will send four delegations during 2008, departing on February 25th, April 24th, August 15th, and November 15th (dates subject to change). Each delegation will spend two weeks in Iran. The deadline for applications is generally 3-4 months before each trip. (Consult www.forusa.org/programs/iran for details.)
 

Where:
 

The delegations will visit Tehran (the contemporary capital), Qom (the world center of Shi’i theology), Esfahan (the legendary capital of medieval Persia), and Shiraz (the jewel of classical Islamic culture as well as the seat of Iran’s ancient pre-Islamic civilization). Each delegation's itinerary is slightly different, so additional stops are possible.

Who:
 

We strongly urge all interested individuals, particularly those active in education or community work, to apply for this exceptional opportunity. Our objective is to send delegations that reflect all segments of the United States in its ethnic, religious, geographic, and social diversity.
 

Cost:
 

US$3,500 per person covers round-trip airfare from New York to Tehran, full room and board in Iran, all internal transit and coordination in Iran, visa fees, guide and speakers, and the cost of the orientation. (Costs subjects to change.)