Jacqueline Buckman Shahzadi (known to her friends as Jackie), a pioneering advocate for civil rights, passed away on November 13, 2024, at the age of 81 in Norwalk, CA. Born on November 26, 1942, in Stamford, CT, to Mary (Uzwiak) and William Buckman, Jackie dedicated her life to championing social justice, cultural diversity, and equality, leaving a lasting legacy through her work in education and human rights.
Jackie earned a Ph.D. in the double major of Curriculum and Instruction and Sociology of Education, as well as an MS in Education, an MA in Sociology, and a BS in Sociology. Her journey as an advocate for civil rights began during a transformative semester at Howard University in the early 1960s, where she witnessed the power of activism and the fight for racial equality. It was there that she ignited her passion for change— a passion that would shape the rest of her life.
At the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Jackie met the love of her life, Bahman, and together they embarked on a remarkable, though challenging, journey over the next 50+ years. After moving to Tehran, Iran, to marry and begin their family, she continued her commitment to education by teaching English and engaging in cultural exchange. She formed many lifelong friendships in Iran, even joining organizations such as the Foreign Wives of Iranians, some members who still attend reunions to this day. But as political unrest swept Iran during the revolution, making life unsafe for Americans living abroad, Jackie demonstrated her courage and resilience by ensuring the safe relocation of her family back to the United States. Once there, she picked up the pieces and started over, continuing her work as an educator and advocate. Jackie and Bahman eventually published their memoirs and reflections of this time, chronicling their journey using excerpts of their old letters to each other and family.
A tireless advocate for equity and equality, Jackie traveled the world, speaking at conferences on issues such as cultural diversity, women’s rights, and gender equality in education and the workplace. Her work helped shape conversations on the challenges faced by marginalized communities. She developed cherished friendships and became a mentor to many across the country—and even the world. Traveling was a lifelong passion of hers and she jumped at every opportunity to do so.
Jackie is survived by her husband, Bahman; a son, Ramin; a daughter, Susanne (Thea); a grandson, Jayse (Alexis); a sister, Lois (Jack); a brother, John (Marcy); three nieces, Alexandra (Patrick), Elizabeth (Brendan), and Kate; a nephew, Andy (Kristen); and a grandniece, Audrey. She was predeceased by her sister, Patricia. Jackie is remembered not only for her scholarly achievements and fearless advocacy but also for her generosity, wisdom, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
A Celebration of Life will be held on March 1, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Association of University Women (AAUW-La Palma/Cerritos branch), Women Graduates USA, or the Women First International Fund in her honor.
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