Nazanin Boniadi

As far as the 2009 elections go, there has been a serious crackdown on human rights in Iran, a clampdown on the media and the wrongful imprisonment of journalists. So it seems what's happening is the government is going after people who have a voice, people who change society or public opinion.

My human rights activism has been widely met with encouragement and support. Ahangarani should earn plaudits, not only for her cinematic achievements, but also for her humanitarian deeds and her commitment to increased rights and freedoms for all.

When President Hassan Rouhani was elected in Iran in 2013, he welcomed back the far-flung children of Iran. But one by one, they have been arrested and imprisoned upon their return, a fate that has made me increasingly reluctant to risk going back to a homeland I've not seen since 1992.

The people of Iran have had to endure repressive laws that have stifled their freedom of speech and religion for too long.

We all know in our hearts that forgiveness is the right thing; it's just a matter of being inspired to reach that place.

Homeland' is great at challenging our preconceived ideas.

It's been an interesting progression, going from soap to a sitcom with 'How I Met Your Mother' and now being a series regular on 'Homeland.'

It's bizarre to be given an award for being empathetic and kind, which is what we all should be.

When you're devoted to a greater freedom in the world, you're willing to compromise something you love.

I think a culture can really be elevated through the arts, and it's always a dream come true when I come across roles that enable me to fuse my love of storytelling with my passion for activism and raising social awareness.

In 2013, I started playing Fara Sherazi on 'Homeland.' I love playing her, not just because she's a strong woman, but because for the first time, a Muslim woman is being portrayed on television as a regular person, rather than a cliche or collection of stereotypes.

The thing that I love about 'Scandal' is every character, it's not clear if they're good or bad. Everyone is both good and bad.