What makes you feel empowered as a woman?
As a woman, my confidence doesn’t come from the things around me, but from what I stand for and believe in. As an American woman, I’m empowered by what I have accomplished, but as a Muslim woman, I am empowered by my faith and religion.
Are you confident in yourself and in your religion?
The religion I stand for has been seen in the eyes of the media as anything but its truest form. People think that Islam promotes violence, terrorism and many other negatives, but that idea has only been derived from the actions of a few individuals. The true idea of Islam and the goal of the Muslims who follow are to spread peace not only to the followers, but also to any other religion. However, due to the ignorance of some, that perspective is overruled by the negative. For me, I can confidently say that I am not only empowered by being a Muslim, but also honored.
What are some of your achievements that you have accomplished?
As an American Muslim, I have always tried to earn the best grades and show the greatest character to make myself and my parents proud. I’ve never let myself or others restrict me from doing anything based on my race or my faith. Throughout my education, I’ve gotten presidential awards, honor rolls and individual character awards.
How do you feel about Donald Trump’s ban on all immigration from seven Muslim majority countries?
As a Muslim American, Donald Trump’s ideas against Muslims affect me, my family and friends vastly. His views on banning Muslim immigration and making America “terrorism free” seem very close-minded to me. The U.S. is filled with many racially diverse individuals, and the ban on a certain race does not seem rational as a way of preventing violence. Being the President of the United States, he surely knows the foundations America was built on, and his first task in office went against them. Donald Trump’s presidency has affected many people, but all we can hope for now is a better future.