Episode 15 - Zubair (Afghanistan)

Zubair immigrated from Afghanistan to the U.S. only three years ago with his wife and six kids. After a childhood ravaged by war, memories from carnage and fear still follow him today.

With constant threats of suicide bombings, a corrupt system, and civil unrest from the Taliban, Zubair would watch his country unravel. 

Although there were many obstacles, that didn’t stop Zubair from succeeding. He studied law while he lived in Pakistan to become a lawyer. He returned to Afghanistan and practiced international law with prominent organizations that supported human rights and rights of refugees in Afghanistan.  

He decided to come to the U.S. under the Special Immigrant Visa program in search of security and freedom for his family because those things always seemed out of grasp. This meant he had to make immense sacrifices, such as giving up his career and connections and leaving everything he knew behind to come to the U.S.

This interview was recorded a few months ago, so it doesn’t touch on what has recently happened, but his story will shed light on the hardships that the Afghans have gone through for so long. I am heartbroken seeing all the tragedies that have taken place in Afghanistan and asking why and how the situation deteriorated so rapidly, creating this humanitarian crisis.  I am grateful I had the opportunity to meet Zubair to learn more about the Afghans and to be able to share his story with others.  His story is one of the millions, and I hope people will resonate with it and realize that most of us want the same fundamental things, freedom and security. 

For those who want to get involved or donate, here are some resources: 

https://www.lirs.org/help-our-afghan-allies/

https://miles4migrants.org/ - Miles4Migrants uses donated frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and cash to help people impacted by war, persecution, or disaster reunite with loved ones and start new beginnings in safe homes

https://www.womenforwomen.org/

https://www.protectafghanwomen.org/