Call Me American summary

The Journey of Abdi Nor Iftin

In Call Me American, Abdi Nor Iftin shares his incredible journey from a war-torn Somalia to his life as a proud American citizen. Growing up in Mogadishu, Abdi was fascinated by American culture and taught himself English through movies and music. However, his love for America was dangerous in a city controlled by radical Islamists.

Abdi's life took a turn when he discovered Western pop culture, which was forbidden by the radical group Al-Shabaab. He began to secretly listen to American radio and watch movies, often risking his life to do so. He also started learning English, using an American accent to blend in and avoid suspicion.

Surviving the War in Somalia

As the war in Somalia escalated, Abdi's life became increasingly difficult. He lost his father, his brother, and his home. He was often on the run, using his English skills to work as a translator for journalists, which exposed him to the dangers of reporting in a war zone. Despite the hardships, Abdi never lost sight of his dream to live in America.

His determination led him to apply for the American visa lottery, a gamble that could change his life. After years of waiting and facing numerous challenges, Abdi finally won the lottery, earning the chance to move to the United States. However, his journey was far from over, as he faced a long and arduous process to reach his new home.

The Struggle for Freedom

Upon arriving in America, Abdi faced new challenges. He struggled to adapt to a new culture, language, and climate. He also had to navigate the complex immigration system, which often made him feel like a criminal rather than a refugee seeking freedom.

Despite the difficulties, Abdi remained optimistic and worked hard to build a new life. He enrolled in a community college, found a job, and became involved in his local community. He also shared his story with the world, advocating for refugees and immigrants and raising awareness about the struggles they face.

Becoming an American Citizen

After years of hard work and perseverance, Abdi finally achieved his dream of becoming an American citizen. He celebrated his naturalization ceremony with pride, feeling grateful for the opportunities the United States had provided him. He also acknowledged the challenges ahead, including the ongoing fight for refugee rights and the well-being of his loved ones still in Somalia.

In conclusion, Call Me American is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Abdi Nor Iftin's story is one of survival, hope, and the pursuit of freedom. It highlights the struggles faced by refugees and immigrants, while also celebrating the opportunities and freedoms that America represents.