The Oregon Senate Rules Committee voted to move House Bill 3768 to the floor with a "do pass" recommendation, a measure that would designate March 21 of each year as Nowruz Day in Oregon and is written to take effect on passage.

Representative Farrah Chayche, sponsor of the House measure, told the committee "Nowruz is the Persian New Year, which falls on the spring equinox every year. It symbolizes rebirth, renewal, patience, and prosperity," and described bringing Nowruz opening ceremonies to the Oregon House earlier in the session.

Why it matters: supporters framed the bill as a simple, recurring recognition with cultural and economic benefits. Shereen Farahi, identified as president of the Sheikh Center, said every item traditionally placed on the Nowruz haft-sin table "is already being produced in Oregon" and argued recognizing the day could help market state agricultural products and boost arts and small businesses that supply traditional items.

Lawmakers and witnesses described personal and community reasons for the bill. Representative Cyrus Javidi (testifying in support) said the measure signals to immigrant communities that "you’re welcome" and urged the committee to approve the recognition. Daniel Shaheen Mokhtadeh, chief of staff to Representative Vanessa Helm (testimony recorded on behalf of Rep. Helm), described Nowruz as a 3,000-year-old, cross-border cultural tradition celebrated by millions and recounted community events he attended where families preserved customs even after pressure following 9/11.

Some senators spoke about cultural commonalities across faiths and seasons. Senator Manning said participating in and learning about other cultures "has made me a better person," and voiced full support. Senator Thatcher said she was interested and would like to participate but was not yet prepared to vote yes, citing reservations about naming a day. The committee recorded at least one dissenting vote during final roll call in committee; the motion to advance the bill passed.

Action taken: Senator Manning moved the measure to the floor with a "do pass" recommendation; the committee approved the motion and the clerk recorded the measure as moving forward to the full Senate.

Next steps: HB 3768 will be scheduled for consideration on the Senate floor. If passed by both chambers and signed or otherwise made effective under its emergency clause, March 21 would be designated Nowruz Day in Oregon.

Sources and evidence: committee testimony by Representative Farrah Chayche, Shereen Farahi, Representative Cyrus Javidi, Daniel Shaheen Mokhtadeh, and additional community witnesses recorded in the May 21, 2025 Rules Committee transcript.