Groundbreaking Book Celebrating the First Somali-American Muslim Woman Elected to U.S. Congress Now Available in Persian

The recently released Persian translation of “This Is What America Looks Like,” authored by Ilhan Omar and Rebecca Paley, is now available in bookstores throughout Iran. This impactful memoir showcases Omar’s journey as she navigates the complexities of her identity and political landscape. Translated by Sepideh Ashrafi and published by Maaref Publication, the book spans 184 pages and offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a trailblazer.

Ilhan Omar’s story is a testament to resilience and determination. As the first African refugee and Somali-American elected to Congress, she has become a progressive icon in American politics. This memoir not only details her unique background but also emphasizes how she forged her own path in a world that often presented barriers to people like her.

Omar, who has represented Minnesota’s 5th congressional district since 2019, is a prominent member of the Democratic Party. Her political career began in the Minnesota House of Representatives, where she served from 2017 to 2019. Her district encompasses all of Minneapolis and some surrounding suburbs.

Known for her outspoken criticism of Israel, Omar is a supporter of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. She has openly condemned Israel’s settlement policies and military actions in the occupied Palestinian territories, as well as the influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups in the United States.

Throughout her career, Omar has faced significant backlash, including derogatory remarks from political opponents and threats to her safety. Her early life was marked by hardship, beginning when she was just eight years old and war erupted in Somalia. The youngest of seven children, she lost her mother at a young age and was raised by her father and grandfather amidst violence and chaos.

As conflict escalated, Omar’s family made the difficult decision to flee their home in Mogadishu. Their journey took them to Kenya, where they endured severe challenges, including malaria, dysentery, and starvation, while living in a refugee camp with over 334,000 others. Fortunately, her father learned about the possibility of applying for resettlement through the United Nations.

After a year of interviews, the family was granted the opportunity to seek refuge in the United States. Following a lengthy vetting process, they arrived in Arlington, Virginia. During this time, Omar focused on her education, believing it was the one aspect of her life she could control. She dedicated herself to her studies, and once her family moved to Minnesota, she emerged as a diligent student.

At just 12 years old, Omar was determined to achieve her American dream, despite the challenges of being an immigrant and a refugee. She encountered stereotypes but chose to bridge gaps with her classmates and the wider community. Her journey led her to North Dakota State University, where she discovered opportunities for scholarships and a low cost of living.

Upon returning to Minneapolis after graduation, Omar became involved with the Democratic Farmer-Labor party. Her first political battles included defeating initiatives aimed at requiring photo IDs for voters and prohibiting gay marriage. She crafted a compelling narrative that portrayed these initiatives as threats to freedom and civil liberties, resonating with diverse communities.

In 2016, Omar was elected to the state legislature, and in 2018, she made history as one of the first two Muslim women elected to the U.S. Congress. Initially, she worried that an archaic rule prohibiting hats would prevent her from wearing her hijab on the House floor. However, Speaker Nancy Pelosi amended the rule, allowing Omar to maintain her cultural identity while serving in Congress.

Despite facing numerous political challenges, Congresswoman Omar remains a symbol of positivity and resilience. She has maintained her grace, wit, and patriotism while advocating for her beliefs. Her memoir captures this spirit, portraying her journey with both lyrical prose and an unsentimental tone, reflecting her unwavering faith, friendship, and commitment to her country.

• Ilhan Omar’s political journey: From refugee to Congresswoman
• Key issues addressed: BDS movement and civil liberties
• Challenges faced: Stereotypes, political backlash, and personal threats
• Significant milestones: Elected to state legislature and U.S. Congress
• Impactful memoir: A personal account of resilience and determination

Omar’s story serves as an inspiration, showcasing the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Her memoir is not just a reflection of her life but also a beacon of hope for many seeking to overcome their own challenges.