Hiba Ali interviewed by Jordan Zapp

Creator:

Ali, Hiba and Zapp, Jordan

Extent:

40.2 Megabytes 1 digital file and 0:47:53 Duration (HH:MM:SS.mmm)

Scope and content:

Records an interview with Hiba Ali, who was born in Paris, France, and moved with her family to Damascus, Syria at the age of four and a half. Relates her immigration to the United States in 2013 with her then-husband. Describes her childhood in the capital of Syria, Damascus, a city with a rich multicultural history, and her numerous travels, including trips to Paris and the United States. Discusses her cultural identity, Muslim background, and growing up in a Christian neighborhood. Comments on the generosity of spirit and openness of the Syrian people. Ali recounts her decision to relocate to the United States to pursue a Master's degree in pharmacology. Describes her decision to relocate from Fairfax to Harrisonburg and separate from her husband. Includes references to domestic violence. Among the topics discussed are community, assimilation, education, childhood, parents' background, experience as an elder child, career aspirations, women's empowerment, motherhood, maintenance of home culture, and immigration. Ali also comments on her experience reconciling the events in the Middle East with her personal memories.

Language:

English

Physical facet:

(.mp3)

Subjects:

Group identity
Immigrants -- Cultural assimilation -- Virginia -- Harrisonburg

Names:

Ali, Hiba
Zapp, Jordan

Places:

Syria -- Emigration and immigration

Access and use