Ever since President Trump signed the executive order which placed a ban on immigration from predominantly Muslim areas, including seven different middle eastern countries, many people have been affected in one way or another, whether it’s a family torn apart, or a close friend that they may never see again. Samiha Rahim, a Dubai native and North Penn High School junior, is a walking testimony of how President Trump’s travel ban has affected more than what is seen on television.

“I can’t believe it’s actually happening. It’s too funny to be true… Like a nightmare really happening.”

Trump’s immigration ban has proven to be apparent to immigrant families the most. Rahim’s parents and the rest of her family are from Bangladesh. Rahim’s aunt is just one of many cases of immigrants being denied access into America, despite not being on Trump’s list.

“She was questioned on her visas, and she was with her kids. They said no, they made her wait, And then she was sent back,” Rahim expressed.

She had been visiting Dubai and upon her return of the country, despite having all of her papers, visa, and green card in order, was denied. Dubai and Bangladesh are not subject to Trump’s order; however, her aunt, and many other immigrants, are denied access into the United States.

“[The President] has duties to keep the country safe; I agree to that, but it doesn’t mean that if a few people from a particular country do something bad that the entire country is [full of] terrorists or whatever he’s thinking,” shared Rahim.

Immigrants and refugees come from these countries with the expectation of a better life, a major component being a better education for their children.

“People want to move here to educate their children better and for education they are risking their lives,” said Rahim.

One thing is for sure, Rahim will not let this travel ban stand in her way or the way of her education. She proclaimed that she loves the North Penn School District, and her and her family are grateful to be apart of such a diverse district.

“My dad is really thankful we are living in Lansdale. I’m glad I’m in North Penn District. In other places people are facing discrimination, I feel like in this place people are much better. I feel safe here,” she shared.