Anniversary of the Fall of Kabul

With the two-year anniversary of the fall of Kabul last week, I’ve thought a great deal about the many Afghans I’ve worked with this past year. These men and women have fought against odds I could never imagine and have kept going.

So many of them worked hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, with the soldiers of the United States military to protect both Afghan and U.S. lives.

There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think of my friend and brother, Amani. He is one of the best men I’ve ever known. I was constantly in awe of him and what he has done and is doing. Through his words and his example, he taught me so much. He worked tirelessly to help those who are seeking Asylum in the United States. And most importantly, I learned of his love for his wife and children who are still in Afghanistan. When the Taliban decided to prevent women from attending college, he and our friend Yasmin (another Afghan living in Boise who is beyond amazing), put together a rally in support of women’s education in Afghanistan. It was an honor to be there with them.

Unquestioningly, the United States is a better place because of Amani and Yasmin being here. And I can say that of so many other Afghans I’ve come to know and admire.

It’s also a privilege to work with so many other Attorneys and Refugee Services who work tirelessly for the Afghan community. So many times, I have seen tireless compassion and effort put into helping our new friends and family find a home here in the United States.

Thank you so very much…