Everyone Has a Name, Even Refugees
A true mother-daughter’s story of freedom and empowerment.
I had the honor to interview Fatima from Afghanistan while she was living in Malaysia. Together with Wisdom Club volunteers, we transcribed Fatima’s story into a book and published it after the family left for the USA.
Fatima and her family left their country and came to Malaysia as refugees.
When I met Fatima, she was a beautiful teenager pursuing acting in one of the local theaters. Her mother was a social worker providing education and care for their community.
The interview took place at their home. I remembered walking into the living room and sat on the carpet. The room was set up with no furniture in sight except carpets to cover the tiled floor. I thought it is the same way most Middle Eastern homes would be furnished.
I remember this interview very well. It took place a few years ago.
I have never had a young girl tell me her first-hand experience in jail. She was barely nine years old then. Her mother was beaten by Taliban soldiers and was unable to move for two months. Despite that painful experience, all Fatima’s mother said was, “I praise God that you and your brother did not see the beating.” There were no regrets nor tears as the interview went on, but Fatima’s mother did not make much eye contact during this time.
My only response was silence. I looked down at my writing pad, words blurred for a while. I did not attempt to pretend to know how it was like. I did not want to feel sorry because Fatima and her mum did not need it. They looked so strong together.
When we finished the interview, I asked if I could put both their names, but her mother said only Fatima’s name is enough. She was adamant for the world to know Fatima.
She wants Fatima to realized her dreams to be a leader.
“FATIMA — fearless and strong for Afghan Women.”
This book aims to give readers both Fatima’s & her mother’s perspective as they fled Afghanistan. This book celebrates both the daughter and her mother’s voices — the voice of a naive, innocent 14-year-old girl along with the hurt and pain of her mother’s memories. Today, they are no longer refugees and have found a home together to live in peace.
