In 2015, my life changed forever when my dear friends Deah, Yusor, and Razan were murdered in their Chapel Hill home in an anti-Muslim hate crime. Losing them affected me more than words can describe and set me on a new path to create a platform for Muslim communities to be heard and seen. I committed myself to honoring their legacies through amplifying underheard voices and increasing community safety through solidarity. During these last ten days of Ramadan, I believe that each and every one of us can carry on their legacy through acts of service and by supporting the work of Our Three Winners.
Deah, Yusor, and Razan loved each other, their families, and their communities. When they were murdered, I knew I wanted to carry on their legacy and help prevent such a tragedy from befalling my community again. I launched myself into community organizing, eventually running for public office because I know that Muslims deserve to be seen, recognized and represented.
In 2020, I was elected to the Durham County Commission — becoming the first Muslim woman elected to public office in North Carolina. And it’s all because of Deah, Yusor, and Razan. They continue to inspire me every day to live like they lived, to carry on their legacies, and to work to make this world a better and safer place for all.
This Ramadan, Our Three Winners is raising $25,000 in memory of Deah, Yusor, and Razan. Will you join me by donating and sharing this fundraiser during these last ten days? Together, we can carry on their legacy and create a world free from hate.
