Having married an Afghan married based in New York, Narwan dreamt of freedom and a new life in a new country. For six years after they wed, her husband gave her excuses for why he was unable to bring her to the United States. Finally, in 2001, after she gave birth to their first son, her husband agreed to bring her and their child into the US. Upon her arrival, Narwan learned that her husband had sponsored her as an Afghan widow seeking refuge in the States, not as his wife. Worse, her husband was addicted to drugs, and beat her frequently. Nevertheless, Narwan wanted to stay in the United States, and endured her marriage for 13 more years. Recently, in the aftermath of a particularly brutal attack, half of Narwan's body became paralyzed. This was the final straw that gave her the courage to finally take a stand. With the determination to reveal her story and receive legal assistance, Narwan visited the WAW Queens Center. Narwan was present when WAW held our first Women's Circle on the topic of domestic violence. It was after that meeting that she came forward and opened her heart to Naheed, our Case Manager. WAW was able to give Narwan the emotional and legal support she needed, helping her obtain an order of protection against her husband and custody of her children. WAW helped Narwan to study and train to get a qualification to take care of seniors in their homes. As she waits for a job in that field, she is working temporarily at a local department store. While she is afraid to go after her husband for child support, we will help her if she chooses to do so. We are trying to obtain proof of her religious marriage in Kabul-- with that proof, Narwan will be able to try and get a divorce and receive alimony. A mother of two young boys and a daughter, Narwan is working hard to support her family. Her children attend our Saturday tutoring classes, which are also a regular opportunity for us to stay connected with her. Narwan is moving forward; a newly emboldened woman, striving to build a healthy, happy life for herself and her children.
