Guest Hooman Khalili From Mic to Mural: How Hooman uses Art to Fight Oppression

In this special episode, host Keith Koo engages in a heartfelt conversation with Hooman Khalili, a visionary artist, longtime Bay Area radio personality (over 20 years on “The Sarah and Vinnie Show” on 97.3 KLLC), and the driving force behind the ‘Women, Life, Freedom’ mural project.

This series of powerful murals initially took shape in response to the persecution and oppression Iranian women face for the simple act of showing their hair in public—a defiant gesture that can lead to severe penalties from their government. Having completed 18 large-scale murals in Israel, Hooman now aims to bring this urgent message of freedom, dignity, and respect to U.S. college campuses, ideally unveiling his first American mural by Purim. Yet his mission transcends that single date, and he continues seeking universities willing to display the murals anytime.

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Episode Highlights

1. The Iranian Catalyst

o Discover how the courage and suffering of Iranian women, who risk punishment by displaying their hair publicly, became the inspiration for Hooman’s “Women, Life, Freedom” project.

o Learn about the significant personal and spiritual calling that compelled Hooman to use art as a platform for social change.

2. From Israel to America

o Hooman recounts the rewards and challenges of painting 18 murals in Israel, each designed to amplify women’s rights and shine a light on cultural freedom.

o Explore why college campuses—centers of learning and social activism—are a natural next step for his vision.

3. The Purim Connection

o Hear about Hooman’s aspiration to reveal his first U.S. mural in time for Purim, linking its themes of bravery and deliverance to the resilience of women who stand against oppression.

o Understand that, while Purim is a meaningful milestone, the mission doesn’t end if the mural isn’t installed by that date.

4. A Message That Endures

o Hooman emphasizes that his commitment to sharing stories of women’s empowerment persists well beyond one holiday.

o He invites colleges and communities across the country to serve as platforms for this urgent conversation, offering hope and unity through art.

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Key Takeaways

· Art as Protest and Prayer: Hooman’s project emerges from a deeply held conviction that public murals can both challenge injustice and inspire solidarity.

· Courageous Women at the Center: By highlighting the struggles of Iranian women who risk their lives by defying oppressive mandates, the murals underscore universal themes of freedom, dignity, and human rights.

· Call for Partnerships: U.S. universities have the opportunity to host these murals, sparking critical dialogue and fostering empathy within their campus communities.

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How You Can Help

1. Spread the Word

o Share this episode with educators, campus leaders, and student groups who may want to learn more about hosting a mural.

o Use social media and community platforms to raise awareness of the “Women, Life, Freedom” message.

2. Offer Resources & Support

o If you have connections or resources that could assist Hooman in finding the perfect location, reach out directly to help facilitate a mural installation.

3. Stay Inspired

o Follow Hooman’s journey to stay updated on new murals, unveiling events, and opportunities to engage with the project.

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Connect with Hooman Khalili · Instagram: @Hoomantv · Website: Hooman.tv · LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hoomankhalili

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