Dear Simpson students, faculty and staff,

I want to say thank you. Some of you have sent messages, gave encouraging words in passing, cried with me, and hugged me with genuine care and kindness. You are beautiful people.

You are beautiful people for not being afraid to speak up for a minority.

You are beautiful people for always encouraging dialogue after major, emotionally packed events.

You are beautiful people for seeing with your hearts when you look at me.

You are beautiful people for understanding that I am a Muslim and that it does not equate me with being a terrorist.

You are beautiful people for taking a moment out of your day just to check on my wellbeing.

You are beautiful people for helping me to seek knowledge, find inspiration and push through even the most disappointing times.

It’s because of you all that I can feel like I will be okay eventually, and that I have a friend to turn to when I’m completely lost.

Now, I know that not everyone at Simpson would care and show the same support, and that’s fine—I don’t expect them to. I know who I can count on, and they are amazing people to me. That’s all I need.

Finally, never forget that you can turn to me too. Black, Latino, Asian, LGBTQ, immigrant, Jewish, Christian, Democrat, Republican, anyone out there…I am here for you, no matter what.