“I stand with you guys!” A passing student directed these words toward Iranian students holding up signs Wednesday in front of Parks Library.

The students were responding to the recent immigration ban by President Donald Trump placed on seven predominantly Muslim countries including Iran.

Each of the signs contained different messages, with one saying, “I’m banned from seeing my parents” and another saying “How I got a US visa,” which listed step by step the strenuous process to rightfully obtain her visa. 

The Iranian students managed to find themselves surrounded with support from many passersby.

Many stopped and engaged in conversations. Some expressed beliefs that the immigration ban is influenced by longtime government propaganda and the Islamophobia that some Americans possess.

As people took off, many gave hugs and words of encouragement to let the Iranian students know that they were not alone.

The students felt the need to express their voices and hope to answer questions from their peers.

Kiana Mousavi, a student from Iran, offered to answer any of the questions from those who stopped by. 

Mousavi also was willing to explain how Trump’s immigration personally affects her. She recently suffered blood clots in her lungs, and her doctor advised her not to be alone while she recovers.

“I was going to ask my mom to come and stay with me, but she can’t now,” Mousavi explained. “We don’t know how long [the ban will last] or if other countries will be added. It will be difficult for people to get jobs or to get student visas.”

While holding his “I’m banned from seeing my parents” sign, Farrokh Sharifi revealed his hurt.

“It’s ridiculous to be [banned] for our nationality,” said Sharifi, who was born and raised in Iran.

He said he had to go to Dubai to get his student visa because there is no American Embassy in Iran. As an Optional Practical Training (OPT) student, he receives temporary employment related to his area of study and can work 12 months before and after completing his studies. Students must must renew their OPT visas every one to two years.

With the ban in place, Sharifi isn’t sure if he can continue in the program and renew his student visa.

“The rules are changing,” Sharifi said. “I don’t know what I can do.”

Sharifi said Trump is wanting to cut the extension of the OPT program.

“No one knows what will happen after,” Sharifi said, referring to the possibility of the OPT program dissolving.

The Iranian students expressed fears and worries for their futures in the United States.

“We need help, we don’t know what will happen next. We need to be united,” Mousavi said.

“It’s not right,” Sharifi said.” People need to ask, have discussions, but don’t punish others.”

The Iranian students will have a rally outside Parks Library at noon Thursday.