Mary Milliken and Amira Karaoud

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (Reuters] – Afghan families fled the Taliban after a long journey that saw them travel from Kabul to Qatar, European cities, and U.S. bases. They finally reached Kentucky where they found refuge in a city well-versed with refugees.

Over the past four decades Bowling Green has hosted waves of refugees, starting with the Cambodians of the 1980s, and continuing to the Bosnians of the 1990s.

Wazir Khan Zdran, a tribal leader, was involved in fighting the Haqani network 20 years ago. This is a strong faction of the Taliban. He knew that the Taliban would attack him, even though he had previously worked for a non-governmental organisation.

Zadran claimed that the Americans helped him and his family save them by taking them in an American Chinook helicopter to Kabul in August. After spending some time on a New Mexico military base they were transferred to Bowling Green where they quickly discovered that their American life was a blessing.

(See https://reut.rs/3H4tNjZ for a picture package on Zadran and other refugees)

He said that his 41-year-old son is happy to be in Bowling Green. With the help of the International Center (a 1981-founded resettlement agency), he was able to secure a house for himself and send his children off to school.

Zadran said, “Also the local community helps us and introduces the culture to us.”

He is now teaching English to his six children, learning English songs and sending letters to “Dear Santa”.

After rising anti-immigrant, refugee and political sentiments during Trump administration, the United States Government is handling its largest ever refugee evacuation. Bowling Green, which will be receiving 350 Afghans from the approximately 75,000 people who plan to move to America during fiscal year 2022, is among them.

Bowling Green has many job opportunities for people who want to live there. The city is an agricultural hub and manufacturing center. Perhaps best known as the Corvette assembly plant. Bosnians number approximately 10,000, and they own many companies. They will be able to attest that there are good opportunities for employment when Afghans receive their expedited work permits in the coming months.

Tahir Zukic from Srebrenica, Bosnian, owns Taz Trucking. He said, “In 2000, when I came to this country, I brought a few suitcases, two infant children, and my wife.”

It’s an incredible place with lots of opportunities and the freedom to do whatever you want.

Zukic stated that learning the Afghan language can be the most difficult part of adapting to a new country for those who didn’t work in Afghanistan with American troops. They must also learn about America, the driving rules, and how to apply for a credit card. What to do when there are tornadoes approaching.

Afghans felt more secure after the twisters that ravaged Kentucky earlier this month. Their shock at the sirens at 1 a.m. that reminded of Kabul had them confused. The uprooted trees and roofs torn off their homes, as well as the deaths and destruction in one neighbourhood home to many immigrants shocked them.

Zadran explained, “We’ve never experienced a hurricane like this before in Afghanistan.” God protected us.

“THIS IS MY PLACE”

Firas Majeed came from Baghdad, via Brooklyn, New York in 2016, to Bowling Green. This Iraqi refugee arrived in Bowling Green to visit his friend. He decided, “This is my home.” After his work as a welder, the Iraqi refugee now runs a grocery that stocks European and Middle Eastern food.

Majeed stated that the quality of life in Bowling Green is much better than the cities. He also appreciates its strong job market, low rental costs, and excellent health care.

Majeed predicted that Afghans will receive a lot support, as many people saw images from the chaotic evacuation of Kabul. These Iraqis could teach them how to get their driver’s license.

Bowling Green allows refugees to retain their identities and become Americans. This is a safe place to have a family, raise a child and follow your faith.

The Forest Park Baptist Church has welcomed Congolese refugees to its congregation. Swahili is used to translate worship services and Bible studies, and they are sometimes conducted in this language.

Mike Givens said, “We love their gospel sing,” and that the church interprets their songs for everyone to hear the message.

Givens stated, “Our church is going to die if we don’t look after and seek the immigrants in our community.”

At the Zadran home, children quickly learn new cultures. Zuleikha, the eldest of them all, is teaching her siblings English songs with the lyrics: “What are You Thankful For?”

Zuleikha exclaims, “Finished!” as they applaud each other’s performance. Zuleikha smiles wide and applauds their own performance.