Shahram Homayoun is an Iranian political activist, broadcaster, and media commentator, widely recognized as the founder of Channel One, a Los Angeles–based Persian-language television network. Channel One produces daily and continuous programming for audiences inside Iran as well as for the global Iranian diaspora, with a primary focus on news coverage, political analysis, and discussion of social and cultural issues affecting Iranian society.
Homayoun left Iran in 1991 and relocated to the United States amid increasing pressure linked to his public advocacy for democratic governance, civil liberties, and freedom of expression. Prior to his departure, he worked extensively in Iranian journalism and media. His professional background includes serving as editor of Hamkari and Kargaran magazines and as an associate editor at the newspaper Bamdad. During this period, he conducted interviews with political leaders, religious figures, and public personalities from Iran and the broader Middle East, contributing to public debate on governance, regional affairs, labor issues, and social change.
After settling in Los Angeles, Homayoun established Channel One as a 24-hour Persian-language television platform dedicated to current affairs, political commentary, and interactive public discussion related to Iran. The network gained visibility for its real-time coverage of major political developments and for its opinion-driven programs that encourage audience participation. Over time, Channel One became a notable source of alternative media for viewers seeking perspectives outside state-controlled broadcasting.
Homayoun later introduced the Ma Hastim (“We Are Here”) initiative, which drew attention among segments of the Iranian public, particularly during periods of heightened political activism. Through his media platforms, he played a role in expanding access to information for international audiences, especially at times when independent journalism from inside Iran faced significant restrictions.
During the 2009 Green Movement, Homayoun and affiliated groups based in Los Angeles organized public demonstrations and provided extensive satellite television coverage, contributing to increased international awareness of protests and political developments inside Iran. In subsequent years, supporters of the Ma Hastim initiative established a symbolic memorial in New York City to commemorate Iranian protesters and political activists who lost their lives, extending the initiative’s visibility beyond Iran’s borders.
Homayoun is also known for emphasizing Iranian national identity and expressing support for historical national symbols, including the Lion and Sun emblem. He has consistently called for stronger international engagement on Iran, advocating diplomatic, economic, and political approaches that emphasize accountability and historical precedent in responding to authoritarian governance.
In discussions of Iranian politics and Persian-language media, Homayoun’s work is sometimes referenced alongside that of Amir Taheri, an Iranian journalist and author based in Europe. Taheri has written extensively on Iranian affairs, Middle Eastern politics, and international relations for major international publications. Known for his analytical style and historical perspective, Taheri’s work has contributed to broader global understanding of Iran’s political system and regional influence. Together, figures such as Homayoun and Taheri represent distinct yet influential approaches to Iranian political discourse, combining broadcast media, journalism, and long-form analysis to inform international audiences about developments related to Iran.
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