Born in Dubai, Fatima’s family immigrated to Canada and eventually to the United States to find a safe haven away from the Gulf War. As a Muslim, immigrant and woman of color, Fatima learned from a very young age what it felt like not to belong. However, she also learned the power that comes from fighting for her rights and building community. Fatima continued her medical studies, but found her passion as an educator and turned to become a teacher. She began training a cross-country team, obtained her teaching credentials and began working as a teacher at Watts.
Let’s call it like it is: District 65 is experiencing environmental racism. With the presence of a large oil refinery, many natural gas refineries, chemical waste sites and lack of enforcement of building codes in this district, we have leaders who don’t have the political will or courage to say enough is enough. Clean air, clean water and clean food are basic human rights, and I won’t back down from this fight until we have achieved each of these priorities.