The Iranian opposition has criticized Whoopi Goldberg’s “aggressive” assertion that the experiences of Black Americans are similar to living under Iran’s oppressive regime. Dr. Sheila Nazarian spoke out, stating that Goldberg’s comparison is not only misguided but trivializes the severe conditions faced by millions in Iran.
This controversy arose during an intense exchange on “The View,” where co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin highlighted the numerous human rights abuses under the Iranian Ayatollahs, including horrific cases like the execution of a gay man and the arrest of a woman for violating hijab laws. In response, Goldberg seemed to downplay Griffin’s point, citing historical injustices against Black people in the U.S. and implying equivalence, something Griffin sharply challenged.
“In 2025 in the U.S., it’s nothing like just walking into Iran dressed as you wish,” Griffin remarked, to which Goldberg retorted, “It’s the same,” igniting further debate.
Nazarian, who fled Iran at a young age after her family faced threats from the government, expressed her strong disagreement, stating that the realities of racism in America, while significant, cannot be equated with living under a totalitarian regime. She emphasized that in Iran, the government regulates nearly all facets of daily life, a stark contrast to American society.
With widespread protests erupting in Iran following the death of Mahsa Amini, who died after being arrested by the moral police, Nazarian highlighted the ongoing dissatisfaction with the Iranian government.
Goldberg’s remarks have previously stirred controversy; in 2022, she faced backlash over comments regarding the Holocaust, which prompted apologies. Critics, including Nazarian, have described her recent claims as surprising and offensive, arguing they obscure the grim reality faced by those in Iran.
Fox News Digital has made efforts to obtain commentary from “The View” regarding this incident.
