For the first time since Iran's Islamic revolution, the U.S. government is preparing to give funds to Iranians and U.S. organizations working in Iran to promote human rights and democracy.

For the first time since Iran's Islamic revolution, the U.S. government is preparing to give funds to Iranians and U.S. organizations working in Iran to promote human rights and democracy. Congress has appropriated $3 million for the effort and the State Department is soliciting proposals from non-governmental groups. This move--a shift in policy for the U.S., which spends millions on radio and TV broadcasts in Farsi but has until now refused to give money to anyone inside the Islamic Republic--should serve as encouragement to Iran's brave dissidents. Though many Iranians fear that accepting American money would undermine their independence and legitimacy, if spent quietly and wisely American funds could reach opposition leaders indirectly, and without compromising their cause. Of chief importance right now for Iran's pro-democracy movement is to bring together disparate groups and educate the Iranian public. If American money is able to facilitate those efforts, and to do so inconspicuously, it will be money well spent.