A heated exchange on ABC's "The View" has sparked significant controversy, as Whoopi Goldberg's comparison of the experiences of Black Americans to those living under Iran's theocratic rule met with backlash from Iranian-Americans. During the debate, Goldberg seemed to equate systemic racism in America with the severe oppression faced by Iranians, a statement that many found to diminish the harsh reality of life in Iran.
The discussion became contentious when co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin highlighted the Iranian government's human rights abuses. These include the execution of LGBT individuals and imprisonment of women for defying strict dress codes. Griffin asserted, "In the year 2025 in the United States, it is nothing like if I step foot wearing this outfit into Iran right now." In response, Goldberg firmly stated, "It is the same," and added, "Not if you're Black," suggesting a parallel between American racial issues and the risks under Iranian authoritarian rule.
The comments quickly drew fire from members of the Iranian diaspora, who argued that Goldberg's remarks failed to recognize the severity of the Iranian regime's control over its citizens. Dr. Sheila Nazarian, a plastic surgeon who escaped Iran after her family was persecuted by the government, told Fox News Digital that equating the racial issues in America with the dangers Iranians face daily is "deeply misguided" and "offensive." She detailed the extreme risks in Iran, including imprisonment, torture, or execution for peaceful protest or expressing dissent.
The Islamic Republic has been embroiled in ongoing protests and violent government crackdowns since the death of Mahsa Amini, who died in custody after allegedly violating Iran's hijab laws. These events have only intensified the scrutiny of Iran's human rights record.
Iranian-American journalist Lisa Daftari also weighed in, highlighting the freedoms enjoyed by Goldberg as a Black woman in America, freedoms that are starkly contrasted by the oppression faced by Iranian women.
This incident is not Goldberg's first to stir controversy. In 2022, she was suspended from "The View" after making remarks about the Holocaust that were widely condemned. She later apologized, stating she "misspoke."
The recent remarks by Goldberg have reignited discussions on the need to recognize and respect the distinct hardships faced by different groups without conflating their experiences. The conversation also draws attention to the global concern over Iran's treatment of its citizens, as dissidents continue to urge international intervention.
Despite the uproar, "The View" has not issued a comment on the incident.
