Today is a special day in my life.
Today I celebrate my 34 year anniversary of becoming a US Citizen on September 18, 1992.
This is a special day in this particular climate, where anti-immigrant rhetoric has reached epidemic levels. Where due process is trampled upon and denied. Where the President is literally building concentration camps to lock up immigrants. And where the Supreme Court is openly endorsing racial profiling to further enable illegal fascist ICE raids.
As I reflect, I can say with certainty that I am a proud immigrant, proudly Pakistani, and proudly American. And proud about about my journey here. Let’s Address This.
Growing Up
Growing up in section 8 housing, surviving off food stamps, and working since I was 15, I experienced first hand for nearly a decade, the struggle that is every day for tens of millions of Americans.
I've experienced the ugly side of our country--the death threats for being Muslim, the xenophobia for being an immigrant, and the hate crimes for being a Muslim immigrant of color. Sadly, I see those increasing even today.
But I've also seen the immense love, compassion, and justice celebrated by my fellow Americans. I've seen amazing teachers teach me, and now teach my children. I've seen amazing public servants selflessly sacrifice themselves for the greater good. And I've seen the kindly neighbor and stranger lend a helping hand in dire times.
In these 34 years I graduated high school, then college, got married, became a father, graduated law school, became a father two more times, published books, helped my wife Ayesha launch her small business, spent my legal career working with countless amazing people from underrepresented and marginalized communities to fight for that more perfect union—even ran for U.S. Congress, and now have launchd my growing media company to combat hate and disinformation, and keep the public informed on facts and human rights.
What a journey, and what an honor.
The Future
It has been a remarkable 34 years, and I consider it a privilege to be an American citizen. And I cannot wait for the next 34 because all said and done—we're only getting started. As I see the rise of fascism in the United States, my default, my nature, my instinct, is not to back down -- but to double down. I have worked too hard, been afforded too many blessings, been guided by too many remarkable teachers and mentors, and been gifted too many privileges, to now cower in silence in the face of fascism.
No, we are not backing down, we are doubling down in our efforts to uphold justice for all people in this country, and in this world. For all people, immigrants and born US citizens, alike.
I am grateful to those who continue to support me, and you can do so in one of three meaningful ways.
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Stand united against the culture wars meant to divide us.
The only way through is together, and this community of thoughtful people means the world to me as we navigate these difficult waters together. So thank you. Thank you all for being on this journey with me. Here's to the future. Here's to the next 34 years and beyond. Here's to building that more perfect Union we are called to be. Much love to al of you.
And God bless you all. ❤️✊🏽
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Aw! You were so cute! What happened? Joking. Obviously. Congratulations. I am glad you made this country your home. We are better with you here.
Your work on behalf of human rights and democracy, all pursued with great compassion, inspires hope for many. Thank you and congratulations on this anniversary.