Rabbi Yoshi feels that over time, Iranian Americans have become more assimilated to their American host culture. When first arriving in America they were more conservative and not likely to support liberal issues and causes; they are currently a little more welcoming of new ideas on gay rights and other issues. In addition, in Iran, individuals were more likely to be strictly traditional in their religious observance. However, now, after attending a Reform synagogue in America, they have become more secularized and less traditional than they used to be, as they have become accustomed to a new culture.

When asked how he deals with these issues as a Reform Rabbi, Rabbi Yoshi says he believes strongly in inclusion and equality. He says if an Iranian American comes up to him expressing concern about the fact that gay couples have been welcomed to the temple, he tells them that many of our children may identify as gay, lesbian or transgender, and we want to support them, not force them to be closeted. As time goes on, the Iranian Jewish community is becoming more open and Americanized, and is slowly merging with mainstream American culture.

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