We’re still working furiously to respond to those affected by the flooding and storms throughout the central United States.

But,

here in Washington DC (where the heat wave has broken thank goodness) we’re joined by busloads of well-dressed women visiting headquarters for our Tiffany Circle Summit.

This afternoon I had the privilege to sit in on their luncheon where I was moved by guest speaker Dr. Haleh Esfandiari, the Iranian American woman who was held in solitary confinement for 105 days in Tehran. She told the Tiffany Circle audience that it is incumbent upon us living in the free world to insist that rights are universal and apply to all individuals.”

After her prepared speech, she took questions including:

How did you manage all those days of solitary confinement?

I knew I was not forgotten. I knew there was little I could do with the situatiuon so I made a program for my days. I would wake up, shower, and then do 7-10 hours of exercise walking around my cell. I took enough exercise classes in the United States that I could make routines - I knew how to do it. 

To stay mentally sane, I wrote 2 books in my mind. One my maternal grandmother’s biography and the other a children’s story for my own children.

Then I was usually interrogated. I had to just face a wall never a person.

I did not think about my family because it was too difficult.  

Were you aware of the advocacy campaigns conducted on your behalf while in prison?

Not really. During interrogations I would get clues some days when they asked questions like, “How do you know Obama?” I had no idea he was a Presidential candidate but had been at an event with him and 600 other people once. Turns out he was the first Senator to speak on my behalf.

How did your imprisonment change your life?

I learned that living in a country where rule of law matters is important.

Who was the first person you hugged upon your release?

My mom.

How is your mother?

She is doing well.

All in all an inspiring lunch. The Summit continues this evening with a dinner at the State Department to recognize Alma Powell (wife of Colin Powell) with the American Red Cross Legacy of Service Award.

Filed under: Development, Flickr, Hero, International, Leadership