Reflections on Immigration and Women’s History Month
March is a season of renewal, a beautiful transition from the slumber of winter to the vibrance of spring. With flowers blooming and sunshine brightening our days, I am reminded of the significance this month holds for me as an immigrant. In my native Egypt, March 21 is celebrated as Mother’s Day, a time to honor the nurturing figures in our lives. This reflection prompts me to consider what March symbolizes for me on my journey in America.
Arriving in the United States, I was fortunate to have grown up in an academic environment. This foundational support led me to a position in university administration, which I embraced as my new home. However, I quickly recognized that the question, “Tell me about yourself,” often veiled the underlying inquiry: “Where are you from?” This realization left me feeling like an outsider. Despite this, I took pride in challenging the narrative of the “oppressed Arab woman” every day, driven by a desire to confront the ignorance inherent in prejudice. My mission became clear: to dismantle the stereotypes not only for myself but for others as well.
The Dual Experience of Visibility
I often find myself navigating the complex dichotomy of hyper-visibility and invisibility—a common experience for many well-educated women of color. In professional spaces, I encounter questions such as, “Will you be the right candidate for sponsorship?” or “Are you considered ‘my competition’?” After a three-decade career, I was unprepared to witness these inquiries persist, becoming even more pronounced now that I am in my 50s.
Empowering Women to Flourish
In my work, I strive to create systems that offer access and opportunities without the extremes of hyper-visibility or invisibility. This March, I encourage women to embrace their capacity for reinvention, much like the flowers that bloom anew in spring. Lean on those who provide support and uplift you, allowing you the space to breathe and extend your wings. Lead with beauty, justice, and goodwill. Happy Women’s History Month! Together, let us celebrate our journeys and the strength we embody.
