In March 2023, Anita Omary, a determined woman from Afghanistan, arrived in the United States with dreams of building a better life. However, her transition to life in Connecticut was anything but smooth.
“When I first arrived, everything felt so strange—the weather, the environment, the people,” Omary shared. Leaving behind her extended family and a successful career managing child protective cases was challenging enough, but she was also five months pregnant. With her husband unable to obtain a travel visa, Anita faced the daunting task of navigating a new culture and language entirely on her own.
“I went through a period of deep disappointment and depression, where I wasn’t able to do much for myself,” she reflected, highlighting the emotional hurdles she faced.
Finding Support in a New Land
In a twist of fate, Omary met Dee, a compassionate nurse at a women’s health center during her prenatal checkups. Dee quickly recognized that Omary was struggling and became a lifeline for her. “From that moment on, she became my support system,” said Omary.
Dee not only checked in on Omary’s health but also provided assistance in ways she never expected, like ensuring her small room had an air conditioner. As their friendship deepened, Dee helped Omary apply for jobs, took her on driving lessons each weekend, and supported her as she enrolled at the University of New Haven to pursue a master’s degree.
A Transformative Friendship
Omary’s life transformed as she gained stability and confidence through Dee’s unwavering support. After the birth of her son, Osman, Dee even stayed with her in the hospital, bringing meals and providing emotional comfort. “Her support truly changed my life,” Omary expressed. “It gave me a sense of stability and confidence. I didn’t feel alone because of her.”
Giving Back to the Community
Inspired by her experience, Omary developed a resolve to help others who faced similar challenges. “I want to be that source of encouragement and support for others that my friend was for me,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of fostering kindness and community.
Advocating for Refugee Families
Now flourishing as a career development specialist and continuing her education, Omary actively advocates for refugee and immigrant families through the Refugee Storytellers Collective. She connects newcomers with necessary resources and teaches local communities how to effectively welcome them.
The Importance of Kindness in Welcoming New Families
Omary acknowledges that welcoming new families comes with its set of challenges, particularly access to English classes, which often have long waitlists. She notes how the lack of childcare can hinder many women from attending classes or working outside the home, making integration even more difficult.
Drawing from her own experiences, Omary stresses that small, everyday acts of kindness can have a profound impact on immigrant and refugee families. “Welcome is not about big gestures, but about consistent acts of care that remind you that you belong,” she explained, recalling how compliments from strangers during her early days uplifted her spirits.
“I built my new life, but I didn’t do it alone,” Omary concluded. “Community and kindness were my greatest strengths.”
If you’re inspired by Anita’s story, consider joining the Refugee Advocacy Lab by signing the #WeWillWelcome pledge. Together, with small, meaningful steps, we can build communities where everyone feels safe and welcomed.
This article is part of Upworthy’s “The Threads Between U.S.” series, supported by the Levi Strauss Foundation, which is dedicated to creating a culture of belonging.
