Betrayal is for cowards

With tears rolling down her face and a quiver in her voice, Tolou Rouhani spoke to council and the community about her experience in the city and that she is leaving North Bay due to its “ignorance towards immigrants, races, religion, and diversity.”

“If it’s all white, it’s like a garden filled with all white roses. How ugly is that,” Rouhani said.

Rouhani’s presentation was cut-off at the ten minute mark and Mayor Vic Fedeli refused to let her complete her final paragraph explaining her reason for leaving the city.

“I don’t believe this, that was very rude Mr. Mayor,” Rouhani said as she stormed out of council chambers.

Rouhani has lived in North Bay for 20 years and said she has suffered a lot in her years here. She said that she was interviewed by the RCMP to make sure she wasn’t a terrorist. Another form of racism she experienced was when she was relaxing on the beach and a police officer told her that if she wanted to sleep she had to go to her car.

“I lived here for 20 years. It’s my Lake Nipissing, my North Bay. They can have it all and shove it,” Rouhani exclaimed.

Rouhani went on to thank the aboriginals in the community for their support. She said that they welcomed her onto the reserve to pray and meditate.

After growing up in Tehran, Iran, Rouhani of the Baha’i faith has lived by the words of her father.

“Never lie. Lying is for cowards. Never betray anyone, especially your friends. Betrayal is for cowards. Stay humble, no matter how much you know, as pride is that of cowards,” Rouhani quoted in her speech.

Rouhani said her presentation was meant to educate council members and the mayor about her culture.

“I don’t want to be with people who aren’t honest,” Rouhani said.

She is leaving North Bay to live in Toronto and says she will only be back to visit her daughter.

“The reason I’m leaving is the racism and betrayal,” Rouhani said.