“I gave up on my life, my hopes and my dream of going to college…I felt isolated because I was a gay Muslim immigrant, and was worried about my immigration status. I was afraid I would be sent back to Zanzibar where I would not receive the health care I needed, and could be put to death for being gay. Once I started receiving the medical care I needed, I began to get my life back on track. In 1997, I obtained my U.S. citizenship, and I slowly began taking community college classes.”
-Lina Ali, 2015 Pride Foundation Scholar
At Pride Foundation’s recent Scholarship Celebration in Seattle, we had the honor and privilege of hearing from Lina Ali, one of this year’s scholarship recipients.
Lina’s story was incredibly courageous and powerful—touching on many of the issues impacting our community, including immigration, resources and support for people living with HIV, and access to education.
We were so moved by Lina’s speech that we wanted all of you to have the chance to hear from her as well. You can read Lina’s full story here, or listen to a podcast of her remarks here.
Thanks to your generosity and support, we’re able to help Lina on her path toward obtaining her Master’s in Social Work.
Zachary Pullin is Pride Foundation’s Communications Manager. Email Zachary.